PSYCH 111 Chapter 2: PSYCH111_Chapter_2

• School: U of M
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYCH 111
• Professor: Elizabeth Buvinger

Document Summary

Continuous variable - a variable which can be measured across a continuum (age) Categorical variable - a variable with a fixed meaning (gender/race) Chapter 2: develop a hypothesis from a theory based on observations, design a research study, gather the data, analyze the data and draw conclusions, report findings. Can draw conclusions about causation, can be replicated, may not have real world applicability (generalizability), not appropriate for all areas due to ethical/practical reasons. Systematic observation - explores changes in variable of interest. Sampling bias: skewed samples will give results that don"t generalize the whole population. Generalizability: ability to reasonably apply the results to similar populations. Standardization: keeping research procedures constant to ensure confidence when comparing results. Extraneous variable: variables other than the iv that can impact results, can become a confounding variable. Demand characteristics: participants may behave in ways they think are expected of them. Social desirability: participants give answers which are correct/appropriate and not necessarily true.