PSY 304 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2: Great Range, Observer-Expectancy Effect, Naturalistic Observation
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From theory to hypothesis: research begins with a hypothesis (prediction drawn from a theory, can be drawn from a single theory or could be a hypothesis from one theory against a hypothesis from a different theory. Occasionally, research begins with a research question if little or no theory exists. Common methods of gathering information: gather information through methods such as systematic observation, self-reports (like questionnaires and interviews), clinical or case studies of a single child, and ethnographies of the life circumstances of a specific group of children. Can"t control conditions under which participants are observed; accuracy of observations may be reduced by observer influence and observer bias. Observation of behavior in a lab where conditions are the same for all participants. Each participant has an everyday behavior; equal opportunity to display the behavior of interest accuracy of observations may be reduced by observer. Flexible interviewing procedure in which participant provides complete account of.
