Psychologists use the scientific method to investigate questions both systematically and empirically.
Research in psychology is important because it provides us with valuable information that helps to improve human lives.
Psychology research can have a variety of goals.
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What researchers learn can be used to describe, explain, predict, or change human behavior.
Psychologists usethe scientific methodto conduct studies and research in psychology.
It relies on techniques such as observation, surveys, and case studies.
Correlational Studies
Correlational researchis frequently used in psychology to look for relationships between variables.
While research look at how variables are related, they do not manipulate any of the variables.
In other words, correlation does not equal causation.
Experimenters then compare the results of the two groups to determine if the treatment had an effect.
Cross-Sectional Research
In across-sectional study, researchers collect data from participants at a single point in time.
These studies can last days, months, or years.
As of 2003, more than 200 of the partipants were still alive.
Reliability
Reliabilityis a vital component of a valid psychological test.
How do we measure it?
Simply put, reliability refers to the consistency of a measure.
A test is considered reliable if we get the same result repeatedly.
What exactly is validity?
A valid test ensures that the results accurately reflect the dimension undergoing assessment.
Spend some time studying these terms and definitions before your exam.
Some key terms that you should know include:
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Caruana EJ, Roman M, Hernandez-Sanchez J, Solli P.Longitudinal studies.J Thorac Dis.
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Stanford Magazine.The vexing legacy of Lewis Terman.