Psychological Research Methods

Goals of Psychological Research

• Describing Behaviors
• Examining Relationships Between Behaviors
• Examining Impact of Variables on Behaviors

Research Methods

Descriptive Research

• Purpose: Focus on describing behaviors.
• Types:
  • Case Studies:
    • Detailed examination of a single person or group.
    • Provides insight for broader studies.
    • Downside: Difficulty in generalizing findings due to rare characteristics.
  • Naturalistic Observations:
    • Direct observation in real-world settings without interference.
    • Advantages:
      • Documentation of authentic behavior.
    • Disadvantages:
      • Lack of understanding of underlying causes of behavior.
  • Survey Research:
    • Participants answer questions about behavior, attitudes, and feelings.
    • Useful for measuring unobservable mental states.
    • Disadvantages:
      • Potential biases in self-reporting.
      • Influence of question wording.

Correlational Research

• Purpose: Explore relationships between variables.
• Method: Use surveys and statistical calculations.
• Correlation Coefficient (r):
  • Ranges from -1 to +1.
  • Indicates strength and direction of relationship.
  • Positive Correlation: Both variables increase together.
  • Negative Correlation: One variable increases as the other decreases.
  • Zero Correlation: No relationship between variables.
• Limitation: Does not imply causation.

Experimental Research

• Purpose: Establish causal relationships.
• Key Components:
  • Independent Variable (IV): Variable manipulated by researchers.
  • Dependent Variable (DV): Variable measured by researchers; depends on IV.
  • Experimental Group: Receives treatment or participates in experimental conditions.
  • Control Group: Does not receive treatment or participates in experimental conditions.
  • Random Assignment: Ensures equal chances of participants being in either group to minimize confounding variables.
• Challenges:
  • High control, but may lack real-world applicability.

Common Elements Across Research Methods

• Operational Definitions:
  • Specific descriptions of how variables are measured.
  • Important for the clarity and replicability of studies.

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Conclusion

Each method has its strengths and limitations, and the choice depends on the research question being addressed. Operational definitions are crucial across all methods to ensure clarity and precision in research. [Music]