#1
Which of the following is an example of a dependent variable?
Test scores
ExplanationDependent variables change in response to independent variables.
#2
Which of the following is NOT a measure of central tendency?
Variance
ExplanationVariance is a measure of data spread, not central tendency.
#3
Which of the following is NOT a type of non-experimental research design?
Experimental research
ExplanationExperimental research involves manipulating variables, unlike non-experimental designs.
#4
What is the purpose of a hypothesis in psychological research?
To provide a tentative explanation for observed phenomena
ExplanationHypotheses guide research by proposing expected outcomes based on existing knowledge.
#5
Which of the following is a measure of variability in a set of data?
Standard deviation
ExplanationStandard deviation quantifies the spread or dispersion of data points around the mean.
#6
What is the purpose of a control group in an experiment?
To provide a baseline for comparison
ExplanationControl group establishes a reference point to measure the effects of the experimental condition.
#7
Which statistical measure is most appropriate for describing the central tendency of a skewed distribution?
Median
ExplanationMedian is robust against extreme values, making it suitable for skewed distributions.
#8
In a research study, what does 'random sampling' refer to?
Selecting participants randomly from the population
ExplanationRandom sampling ensures each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected.
#9
What is the purpose of a placebo in a psychological experiment?
To act as a comparison for the experimental treatment
ExplanationPlacebos help distinguish the effects of the treatment from psychological responses.
#10
Which research design involves observing and recording behavior in its natural environment without intervention?
Naturalistic observation
ExplanationNaturalistic observation involves passive observation without manipulation.
#11
Which research design involves observing and recording behavior in its natural environment without interference?
Naturalistic observation
ExplanationNaturalistic observation allows for studying behavior as it occurs naturally, without manipulation.
#12
What is the primary purpose of random assignment in an experiment?
To ensure equal representation of participants in each condition
ExplanationRandom assignment reduces bias by equally distributing participant characteristics across conditions.
#13
Which statistical test is appropriate for determining if there is a significant difference between the means of two independent groups?
Independent t-test
ExplanationThe independent t-test compares means of two groups while accounting for their variability.
#14
What is the purpose of a double-blind procedure in psychological research?
To prevent bias by keeping both participants and researchers unaware of group assignments
ExplanationDouble-blind procedures prevent both participant and researcher biases by keeping them unaware of experimental conditions.
#15
Which of the following is NOT an ethical principle in psychological research according to the APA?
Deception
ExplanationDeception violates the principle of informed consent and undermines participant autonomy.