PSYC100 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Serendipity, Scientific Method, Construct Validity

• School: University of Delaware
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC100
• Professor: Agnes R.Ly

Document Summary

How is the scientific method used in psychological research. Theory (explanation based on observations) hypothesis (prediction based on theory) research (testing, collecting data); design and conduct the study analyze the data report the results (support or refute) No single study can provide a definitive answer about any phenomenon. Replication of repeating a study and getting similar results. Must be precise towards certain human behaviors. Unexpected findings can be valuable serendipity. What types of studies are used in psychological research. Considerations for all types of study designs. Random vs convenience (doesn"t represent entire population) How well we are measuring a certain variable. Naturalistic observation, researcher participation, self review (survey, interview), case studies (weaker form of evidence; unique sample) Socially desirable responding: i. e. a survey about a sensitive topic, but what"s considered socially acceptable may alter responses. What is related to what? (two variables) Two forms: scatter plot and bar graph (natural pre-existing groups) Vision distance from professors exam points vision.