#1
Which research method involves in-depth exploration of a single case or a small group of cases?
Case study
ExplanationFocuses on detailed examination of specific instances for deeper understanding.
#2
What is the difference between a population and a sample in psychological research?
A sample is a subset of a population
ExplanationPopulation includes all individuals of interest; sample is a portion used for study.
#3
Which of the following is a measure of central tendency?
Median
ExplanationRepresents the central value in a dataset, less sensitive to extreme values than the mean.
#4
In an experiment, what is the role of the independent variable?
To be manipulated by the researcher
ExplanationThe factor that the researcher deliberately changes or manipulates.
#5
What is a hypothesis in psychological research?
A proposed explanation for a phenomenon
ExplanationSuggests a possible explanation to be tested through research.
#6
What does the term 'confounding variable' refer to in an experiment?
An extraneous variable that may affect the results
ExplanationVariables other than the independent variable that could impact the outcome.
#7
What is the primary purpose of a placebo in experimental research?
To act as a control condition
ExplanationUsed to differentiate between the physiological effects of a treatment and psychological effects.
#8
What is the purpose of random assignment in experimental research?
To minimize pre-existing differences among participants
ExplanationEnsures that each participant has an equal chance of being assigned to any experimental group.
#9
What is the purpose of debriefing in psychological research involving human participants?
To explain the study's purpose and address any concerns
ExplanationProvides participants with information after the study to ensure understanding and address any distress.
#10
In a correlational study, what does a positive correlation coefficient indicate?
A strong relationship with a positive direction
ExplanationAs one variable increases, the other tends to increase as well.
#11
Which of the following is an example of a quasi-experimental design?
Cross-sectional study
ExplanationExamines different groups at one point in time without random assignment.
#12
Which type of research design involves studying the same group of participants over an extended period of time?
Longitudinal design
ExplanationTracks changes in the same individuals over time, providing insights into development or change.
#13
Which ethical principle emphasizes the importance of obtaining informed consent from research participants?
Autonomy
ExplanationRespect for individuals' right to make their own decisions regarding participation.
#14
What is the purpose of a control group in experimental research?
To provide a baseline for comparison
ExplanationServes as a reference point to assess the effects of the independent variable.
#15
Which type of reliability assesses the consistency of a measuring instrument over time?
Test-retest reliability
ExplanationDetermines whether the same measurement yields consistent results across different points in time.
#16
What is the purpose of a pilot study in research?
To identify and address potential issues with the research design
ExplanationConducted as a trial run to refine procedures and detect problems before full-scale implementation.
#17
In a normal distribution, what percentage of scores falls within one standard deviation from the mean?
68%
ExplanationRoughly two-thirds of the data is within one standard deviation of the mean.
#18
What is the purpose of an Institutional Review Board (IRB) in psychological research?
To ensure ethical standards are met
ExplanationOversees research involving human subjects to ensure ethical guidelines are followed.
#19
Which statistical measure is most appropriate for describing the central tendency of a skewed distribution?
Median
ExplanationLess affected by extreme values, providing a better representation of the center.
#20
Which type of validity refers to the extent to which the results of a study can be generalized beyond the specific conditions of the study?
External validity
ExplanationAssesses the applicability of research findings to broader contexts.
#21
What is a double-blind experiment?
An experiment where both the experimenter and participants are unaware of the experimental conditions
ExplanationMinimizes bias by preventing both participants and researchers from knowing who's in which group.
#22
What is a demand characteristic in psychological research?
A participant's expectation of the study's purpose
ExplanationCues or aspects of a study that indicate to participants how they are expected to behave.
#23
What is the purpose of statistical significance in psychological research?
To determine the likelihood that results occurred by chance
ExplanationIndicates whether findings are likely to represent true differences or relationships in the population.
#24
What is the purpose of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) in research involving animals?
To review and approve research protocols involving animals
ExplanationEnsures ethical and humane treatment of animals used in research.
#25
What is the purpose of a replication study in psychological research?
To repeat a study to confirm or disconfirm its findings
ExplanationVerifies the reliability and validity of previous findings by repeating the study.