Lecture Notes: Introduction to Social Research Methods

Instructor Introduction

• Instructor: Armin Trost
• Expertise: Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management
• Affiliation: University in Germany, located in the Black Forest

Course Overview: Social Research Methods

• Focus on scientific research to find the truth.
• Key components:
  • Research: Finding the truth.
  • Methods: Tools or vehicles to access the truth.
  • Social: Refers to human behavior, especially in social systems.

Detailed Breakdown

Research

• Aim to discover the truth.
• Truth is assumed to exist but is not always visible.
• Methods: Include statistical analysis, research design, data collection techniques such as questionnaires, testing, observation, content analysis.

Social

• Involves human behavior in social contexts.
• Focus on interpersonal interactions and societal behaviors.
• Human behavior is complex and often guided by common sense or empathy.

Importance of Systematic Understanding

• Objective understanding required beyond common sense.
• Importance of distinguishing between true scientific insights and common perceptions found in media.

Examples and Cases

Case 1: "People who read live longer"

• Variables: Reading, Life Expectancy
• Considerations: Measurement of reading, third variables like social status.

Case 2: "Internet usage and depression"

• Variables: Internet Usage, Depression
• Challenges in measurement and the role of third variables like social isolation.
• The role of experimental and quasi-experimental designs.

Case 3: "Unemployment and life expectancy"

• Variables: Employment Status, Life Expectancy
• Challenges in conducting real experiments; reliance on observational data.
• Potential third-variable influences.

Case 4: "Caffeine and male sexual potency"

• Variables: Caffeine Consumption, Sexual Potency
• Influence of lifestyle factors such as stress, sleep, and party habits.

Importance of Critical Analysis

• Encourages skepticism and critical thinking about research findings.
• Understanding the appropriate research design, statistical analysis, and measurement techniques is crucial.
• Internal Validity: Establishing causal relationships requires careful study design.

Conclusion

• Next session will cover the essential nature of social research.

This lecture sets the foundation for understanding the complexities and methodologies involved in social research, emphasizing the importance of a systematic and critical approach to studying human behavior.