Social Science (SS) - College Psychology Intrduction - Scientific Research Methods - Framework

1. Definition of Psychology

• Overview: Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior, encompassing various aspects of the human experience.

• Key Concepts: Cognitive processes, emotional responses, social interactions, and developmental stages.

2. Research Studies in Psychology

• Hypothesis: Formulation of a testable statement predicting a relationship between variables.

• Reliability: Consistency of a research study or measuring test over time.

• Validity: The extent to which a test measures what it claims to measure.

3. Types of Studies

• Correlational Study: Examines the relationship between two or more variables to determine if they are associated.

• Experiment:

  • Sampling: Selection of a group of subjects from a larger population.

  • Random Assignment: Allocating participants to different groups purely by chance, minimizing pre-existing differences.

  • Variables:

    • Independent Variable (IV): The variable manipulated by the researcher.

    • Dependent Variable (DV): The variable measured to see the effect of the IV.

4. Statistics in Psychology

• Normal Distribution: A bell-shaped distribution where most occurrences take place in the middle of the distribution.

• Central Tendency: Measures to identify the central point in a data set, like mean, median, and mode.

• Variability: The degree of dispersion in a data set, including range, variance, and standard deviation.

• Statistical Significance: The probability that the result of a study is unlikely to have occurred by chance, often denoted by a p-value.

5. Type I and II Errors

• Type I Error: Incorrectly rejecting a true null hypothesis (false positive).

• Type II Error: Failing to reject a false null hypothesis (false negative).

6. Application of Research Methods

• Case Studies: In-depth analysis of an individual, group, or event.

• Surveys: Collecting data from a sample of individuals through their responses to questions.

• Observational Studies: Observing subjects in their natural environment without manipulation.

7. Ethical Considerations

• Informed Consent: Participants must be informed about the study and consent to participate.

• Confidentiality: Protecting the identity and data of participants.

• Debriefing: Informing participants about the true nature of the study after its completion.

8. Interpretation of Results

• Correlation vs. Causation: Understanding that correlation does not imply causation.

• Generalization: The extent to which results can be generalized to other settings or populations.

• Limitations: Acknowledging the limitations of the study and suggestions for future research.

9. Theoretical Perspectives

• Behaviorism: Focus on observable behaviors and external stimuli.

• Cognitive Psychology: Study of mental processes like thinking, memory, and problem-solving.

• Humanistic Psychology: Emphasizing individual potential and the importance of growth and self-actualization.

10. Recent Trends in Psychology

• Neuropsychology: Studying the relationship between brain function and behavior.

• Positive Psychology: Focusing on the strengths that enable individuals and communities to thrive.

• Cross-Cultural Psychology: Understanding how cultural factors influence human behavior.

This framework offers a structured overview of college-level psychology, covering key concepts, research methodologies, statistical approaches, ethical considerations, and current trends in the field. Each section provides foundational knowledge integral to the understanding of psychology as a scientific discipline.