PSY 205 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2: Dependent And Independent Variables, Naturalistic Observation, Research

• School: Syracuse University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSY 205
• Professor: S.Houck

Document Summary

2. 1: looking for the laws: the scientific approach to behavior. Approach assumes that events are governed by some lawful order. Create ways to measure things so you can describe the behavior clearly and correctly. Can understand events when you"re able to explain why they happened. Hypothesis (definition): tentative statement about the relationship between two or more variables. Variables (definition): any measurable conditions, events, characteristics, or behaviors that are controlled and observed in a study. When people understand a new idea they have more control over it. Attempt to apply their new findings to everyday issues. Theory (definition): a system of interrelated ideas used to explain an observation. By making sense of 2 things, they are going to a description of behavior to understanding. Must be stated precisely and clearly defined variables. Operational definition: describes the actions that will be used to measure or control a variable. Establish what is meant by each variable in the context of the study.