#1
Which of the following is an example of a dependent variable?
Test scores
ExplanationDependent variables are those that are measured and are influenced by the independent variable.
#2
What is the purpose of a control group in an experiment?
To provide a comparison for the experimental group
ExplanationIt's used as a baseline to compare against the experimental group, helping to isolate the effect of the independent variable.
#3
What is the purpose of random assignment in an experiment?
To minimize the effects of confounding variables
ExplanationIt ensures that each participant has an equal chance of being assigned to any group, minimizing the influence of extraneous variables.
#4
What is the purpose of debriefing in psychological research?
To inform participants about the potential risks and benefits of participation
ExplanationIt's to provide participants with information about the study's purpose and any deception involved after their participation.
#5
In an experimental study, what is the purpose of counterbalancing?
To minimize the effects of order effects
ExplanationIt's to ensure that the effects of any order in which conditions are presented are evenly distributed across participants.
#6
What is the central idea behind social facilitation?
People perform better on simple tasks in the presence of others
ExplanationThe presence of others enhances performance on simple or well-rehearsed tasks.
#7
In social psychology, what is the 'fundamental attribution error'?
Attributing others' behavior to dispositional factors rather than situational factors
ExplanationIt's the tendency to attribute others' behavior to internal characteristics rather than considering situational factors.
#8
What does the 'hawthorne effect' refer to in experimental psychology?
Participants alter their behavior due to being observed
ExplanationSubjects modify their behavior when they know they're being observed.
#9
Which term refers to the tendency to prefer information that confirms our preexisting beliefs?
Confirmation bias
ExplanationPeople tend to seek out and interpret information in a way that confirms their existing beliefs or hypotheses.
#10
What is the difference between obedience and conformity?
Obedience involves changing behavior in response to direct orders, while conformity involves changing behavior to fit in with a group
ExplanationObedience is compliance with direct orders, whereas conformity is adjusting behavior to match group norms.
#11
Which research method is often used to establish causality in psychology?
Experimental studies
ExplanationExperimental studies manipulate variables to determine cause and effect relationships.
#12
In social psychology, what is the term for the phenomenon where individuals put forth less effort in a group setting compared to when working individually?
Social loafing
ExplanationIndividuals exert less effort in group settings due to diffusion of responsibility and social comparison.
#13
What is the term for the phenomenon where individuals exert more effort in a group setting compared to when working individually?
Social facilitation
ExplanationThe presence of others enhances performance on simple or well-rehearsed tasks.
#14
What is the term for the phenomenon where the presence of others reduces an individual's effort on a task due to diffusion of responsibility?
Social loafing
ExplanationIndividuals exert less effort in a group setting due to diffusion of responsibility.
#15
What is the term for the tendency of group members to intensify their preexisting views through discussion?
Group polarization
ExplanationGroup discussion tends to amplify initial attitudes or opinions, often resulting in more extreme positions.