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Fundamentals of Scientific Inquiry in Psychology Quiz

#1

Which of the following best defines the term 'hypothesis' in scientific inquiry?

A tentative explanation based on observation and reasoning.
Explanation

A hypothesis is a tentative explanation based on observation and reasoning.

#2

Which research method involves observing and recording behavior in naturally occurring situations without manipulating variables?

Naturalistic observation
Explanation

Naturalistic observation involves observing and recording behavior in naturally occurring situations without manipulating variables.

#3

In the scientific method, which step typically comes after forming a hypothesis?

Designing the experiment
Explanation

After forming a hypothesis, the next step in the scientific method is designing the experiment.

#4

In an experimental study, which variable is deliberately manipulated by the researcher?

Independent variable
Explanation

In an experimental study, the independent variable is deliberately manipulated by the researcher.

#5

What is the purpose of a control group in an experiment?

To provide a comparison for the experimental group.
Explanation

The purpose of a control group is to provide a comparison for the experimental group.

#6

What is a confounding variable in an experiment?

A variable that changes along with the independent variable and may affect the dependent variable.
Explanation

A confounding variable is a variable that changes along with the independent variable and may affect the dependent variable.

#7

What is the primary purpose of peer review in scientific research?

To assess the quality and validity of research before publication.
Explanation

The primary purpose of peer review is to assess the quality and validity of research before publication.

#8

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a good scientific theory?

Subjectivity
Explanation

Subjectivity is not a characteristic of a good scientific theory.

#9

What is the purpose of replication in scientific research?

To ensure that research findings are consistent and reliable.
Explanation

The purpose of replication is to ensure that research findings are consistent and reliable.

#10

What is the purpose of operational definitions in psychological research?

To provide a clear and measurable definition of variables.
Explanation

Operational definitions in psychological research provide a clear and measurable definition of variables.

#11

Which statistical measure indicates the strength and direction of a relationship between two variables?

Correlation coefficient
Explanation

The correlation coefficient indicates the strength and direction of a relationship between two variables.

#12

What is the purpose of random assignment in an experiment?

To increase the likelihood that experimental and control groups are equivalent at the start of the experiment.
Explanation

The purpose of random assignment is to increase the likelihood that experimental and control groups are equivalent at the start of the experiment.

#13

In a double-blind experiment, who is unaware of which participants are in the experimental and control groups?

Both the participants and the researchers
Explanation

In a double-blind experiment, both the participants and the researchers are unaware of which participants are in the experimental and control groups.

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