Psychology 2070A/B Chapter 2: Chapter-2-Methodology

• School: Western University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: Psychology 2070A/B
• Professor: Sarah Stanton

Document Summary

Chapter 2 methodology how social psychologist do research. Hindsight tendency to exaggerate how much they could have predicted outcome after knowing that it occurred: tendency to think we knew it all along already apparent among 3-year-olds. Theory organized set of principles that can be used to explain observed phenomena. Hypothesis testable statement or idea about relationship between 2+ variables. Inspiration from earlier theories and research: many studies stem from researcher"s dissatisfaction with existing theories and explanations, social psychologists engage in continual process of theory refinement, develop theory, test specific hypotheses derived from that theory. Operational definition: no bystanders helped her while she was attacked, the more people who witness emergency, less likely individual will intervene, bibb latan and john darley diffusion of responsibility. Increasingly being used to describe different cultures and generate hypotheses about psychological principles. Intent to harm on part of person bullying present. Importance of clearly defining behaviours of interests applies to all psychological research.