PSYB01H3 Chapter Notes - Chapter 4: Latent Variable Model, Electrodermal Activity, Ipso Facto
Document Summary
Psychological theories are important as they provide a conceptual framework for studies, specifying meaning of key terms and identifies how variables are measured/operationalized, purpose and rationale of a research. Conceptual framework is a network of interlocking relationships linking theoretical ideas to concrete variables and their measurements. Abstract concepts are referred to as constructs (something specified in theories to explain, describe, predict empirical findings) Measured by multiple indicators such as physiological recordings, objective pencil-and-paper tests, behaviour rating scales. Constructs need to be translated into an operational definition (how to measure dependent variable and how to produce independent variables) Construct of anxiety is operationalized in 3 distinct variables - measure of psychophysiology, observational ratings, and self-report. Laboratory study by bushman and baumeister investigating conditions that produce interpersonal violence (personal violence is the construct) Experimenters aim to design ecologically valid studies (the extent to which a study/experiment approximates the actual real-life phenomenon under study)
