PSY 338 Lecture 3: PSY338 Chapter 3
Document Summary
The research process: research in abnormal child psychology is a multistage process involving key decisions at various points, developing a hypothesis on the basis of observation, theory, and previous findings. Internal consistency: whether all parts of a method of measurement contribute in a meaningful way to the information obtained. Interviews: questionnaires, checklists and rating scales, psychophysiological recordings, brain imaging, performance measures, direct observations of behavior. Highly structured; no opportunity for probes or clarification. Can vary from very inclusive observation of all behaviors to highly selective coding of very specific behaviors (e. g. , number of smiles ) Extensive time needed for observing for coding and summarizing observations. Does not rely on participants" providing specific info, but what is observed may be influenced by the presence of the observer. Considerable time needed for interviewing and coding responses and scoring. Relies on participants" perceptions and willingness to report. Responses may be influenced by interview characteristics and mannerisms.