Research Methods
Definition
Research Methods
Research methods are the tools psychologists use to investigate questions and test hypotheses.
The choice of method depends on the research question, the nature of the variables, and practical considerations.
Experiments
True Experiments
- True experiments are characterized by:
- Random assignment of participants to conditions.
- Manipulation of an independent variable (IV).
- Control over extraneous variables.
The Stanford Prison Experiment by Zimbardo et al. (1971) assigned participants to roles of guards or prisoners to study the effects of situational factors on behavior.
Quasi-Experiments
- Quasi-experiments lack random assignment and focus on naturally occuring variables, so there is no manipulation of the independent variable.
Studies comparing brain activity in patients with and without a disorder.
TipStrengths: Ethically feasible when random assignment is impossible.
Limitations: Lower internal validity due to potential confounding variables.
Observations
- Observational methods involve systematic recording of behavior.
Types of Observations
- Naturalistic vs. Controlled:
- Naturalistic observations occur in real-world settings.
- Controlled observations take place in structured environments.
- Overt vs. Covert:
- Overt observations are known to participants.
- Covert observations are hidden from participants.
- Participant vs. Non-Participant:
- Participant observers engage with the group.
- Non-participant observers from an external viewpoint.
Festinger et al. (1956) conducted a covert participant observation of a doomsday cult to study cognitive dissonance.
TipStrengths
- High ecological validity in naturalistic settings
- Rich qualitative data.
Limitations
- Observer bias
- Ethical issues in covert and naturalistic observations.
- The hawthorne effect may also play a role in overt observations, where participants act differently simply because they are being observed
Surveys and Questionnaires
- Surveys and questionnaires are self-report methods used to gather data from large samples.
