#1
Which of the following is NOT a qualitative research method?
Experiment
ExplanationExperiment is a quantitative research method involving controlled manipulation and measurement of variables.
#2
Which of the following is NOT a type of sampling method used in psychological research?
Qualitative sampling
ExplanationQualitative sampling is not a recognized sampling method; common types include random, stratified, and convenience sampling.
#3
What is the purpose of a control group in an experiment?
To provide a standard against which the experimental results can be compared
ExplanationControl groups help assess the impact of the independent variable by providing a baseline for comparison in experimental settings.
#4
What does the term 'reliability' refer to in research methodology?
Consistency and stability of measurement
ExplanationReliability indicates the extent to which a measurement consistently produces the same results under consistent conditions.
#5
What is the purpose of random assignment in experimental research?
To ensure that each participant has an equal chance of being assigned to any condition
ExplanationRandom assignment minimizes bias by randomly allocating participants to different experimental conditions.
#6
What is a confounding variable in research?
A variable that is correlated with both the independent and dependent variables
ExplanationConfounding variables can distort study results by influencing both the independent and dependent variables.
#7
In experimental research, what is the purpose of the placebo condition?
To ensure participant blinding
ExplanationPlacebo conditions help control for psychological effects by providing a comparison group that receives an inactive treatment.
#8
What is the purpose of a pilot study in psychological research?
To test the feasibility of the research design and procedures
ExplanationPilot studies assess the practicality and potential issues in a research design before conducting the full-scale study.
#9
Which statistical test is used to determine the relationship between two continuous variables?
Correlation analysis
ExplanationCorrelation analysis assesses the degree and direction of the linear relationship between two continuous variables.
#10
What is the purpose of an Institutional Review Board (IRB) in psychological research?
To ensure research is conducted ethically and with human subjects' welfare in mind
ExplanationIRBs safeguard ethical standards by reviewing and approving research involving human participants.
#11
What is the difference between reliability and validity in research?
Reliability refers to consistency, while validity refers to accuracy
ExplanationReliability ensures consistent measurement, while validity ensures accurate measurement of what is intended.
#12
What is the difference between cross-sectional and longitudinal research designs?
Cross-sectional studies collect data at a single time point, while longitudinal studies collect data at multiple time points.
ExplanationCross-sectional studies capture data at a specific moment, while longitudinal studies track changes over time by collecting data at multiple points.
#13
What is the primary goal of inferential statistics in psychological research?
To test hypotheses and make inferences about populations
ExplanationInferential statistics analyze sample data to draw conclusions and make predictions about populations.
#14
What is the purpose of a correlation coefficient in statistical analysis?
To measure the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables
ExplanationCorrelation coefficients quantify the strength and direction of the linear relationship between two variables.