| QuestionAnswer Theory An explanation using an integrated set of principles that organizes observations and behaviors or events. Hypothesis A testable prediction, often implied by a theory. Hindsight Bias The tendency to believe, after learning an outcome, that one would have foreseen it. (Also known as the I-knew-it-all-along phenomenon.) Critical Thinking Thinking that does not blindly accept arguments and conclusions. Rather, it examines assumptions, discerns hidden values, evaluates evidence, and assesses conclusions. Replication Repeating the essence of a research study, usually with different participants in different situations, to see whether the basic finding extends to other participants and circumstances. Case Study An observation technique in which one person is studied in depth in the hope of revealing universal principles. Survey A technique ascertaining the self-reported attitudes or behaviors of a particular group, usually by questioning a representative, random sample of the group. Population All the cases in a group being studied, from which samples may be drawn. Random Sample A sample that fairly represents a population because each member has an equal chance of inclusion. Naturalistic Observation Observing and recording behavior in naturally occurring situations without trying to manipulate and control the situation. Correlation A measure of the extent to which two factors vary together, and thus of how well either factor predicts the other. Correlation Coefficient A statistical index of the relationship between two things. Scatterplot A graphed cluster of dots, each of which represents the values of two variables. The slope of the points suggests the direction of the relationship between the two variables. The amount of scatter suggest the strength of the correlation. Illusory Correlation The perception of a relationship where none exists. Experiment A research method in which an investigator manipulates one or more factors to observe the effect on some behavior or mental process. By random assignment of participants, the experimenter aims to control other relevant factors. Random Assignment Assigning participants to experimental and control groups by chance, thus minimizing preexistence differences between those assigned to the different groups. Double-Blind Procedure An experimental procedure in which both the research participants and the research staff are ignorant about whether the research participants have received the treatment or a placebo. Commonly used in drug-evaluation studies. Placebo Effect Experimental results caused by expectations alone; any effect on behavior caused by the administration of an inert substance or condition, which the recipient assumes is an active agent. Experimental Group In an experiment, the group that is exposed to the treatment, that is, to one version of the independent variable. Control Group In an experiment, the group that is not exposed to the treatment; contrasts with the experimental group and serves as a comparison for evaluating the effect of the treatment. Independent Variable The experimental factor that is manipulated; the variable whose effect is being studied. Confounding Variable A factor other than the independent variable that might produce the effect in an experiment. Dependent Variable The outcome factor; the variable that may change in response to manipulations of the independent variable. Mode The most frequently occurring score(s) in a distribution. Median The middle score in a distribution; have the scores are above it and half are below. Mean The arithmetic average of a distribution, obtained by adding the scores and then dividing by the number of scores. Range The difference between the highest and lowest scores in a distribution. Standard Deviation A computed measure of how much scores vary around the mean score. Normal Curve/Normal Distribution A symmetrical, bell-shaped curve that describes the distribution of many types of data; most scores fall near the mean (68 percent fall within one standard deviation of it) and fewer and fewer near the extremes. Statistical Significance A statistical statement of how likely it is that an obtained result occurred by chance. Culture The ending behaviors, ideas, attitudes, values and traditions shared by a group of people and transmitted from one generation to the next. Informed Consent An ethical principle that research participants be told enough to enable them to choose whether they wish to participate. Debriefing The post-experimental explanation of a study, including its purpose and any deceptions, to its participants. Random Assignment Assigning participants to experimental and control groups by chance, thus minimizing preexisting differences between those assigned to the different groups. Operational Definition The statement of the procedures (operations) used to define research variables. For example, human intelligence may be operationally defined as what an intelligence test measures. Percentile Rank Where the results fall on a pre-determined scale based upon final percentages. Regression Towards the Mean an example of bias due to the unreliability of measurement instruments, such that earlier measurements that were extremely deviant to coordinate the various services offered by the rehabilitation team and to focus them on each individual's needs. Bias An inclination, tendency, or preference. Placebo Used as a control in testing a new drug, and has no effect on the subject. Show
What is a technique for ascertaining the self reported attitudes?survey. A technique for ascertaining the self- reported attitudes or behaviors of people, usually by questioning a representative, random sample of them. case study. An observation technique in which one person is studied in depth in the hope of revealing universal principles.
Which of the following research methods relies primarily on the self reported behaviors and attitudes of participants?Surveys are useful in examining stated values, attitudes, opinions, and reporting on practices. However, they are based on self-report, or what people say they do rather than on observation, and this can limit accuracy.
Which qualities would Researchers in psychology ascribe to good theories?Which quality would researchers in psychology ascribe to "good" theories? They should organize observations and imply clear and testable predictions.
What is a sample that fairly represents a population because each member has an equal chance of inclusion?Random Sample - a sample that fairly represents a population because each member has an equal chance of inclusion.
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