Question 1

Which of the following best describes the scientific approach in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Relying on systematic, data-based answers to questions about behavior and mental processes.

Question 2

A psychologist is interested in how childhood experiences shape adult personality. Which theoretical perspective is most relevant?

Accepted Answer

Psychodynamic Perspective

Question 3

Which statement about correlation is correct?

Accepted Answer

A correlation coefficient $r$ close to $+1$ or $-1$ indicates a strong relationship.

Question 4

A researcher wants to test if a new teaching method improves exam scores. She randomly assigns students to two groups: one uses the new method, the other uses the traditional method. What is the independent variable (IV)?

Accepted Answer

The teaching method used

Question 5

Which of the following is a key advantage of experimental research over correlational research?

Accepted Answer

It allows for the determination of causation.

Question 6

A psychologist wants to study aggression in children. She defines aggression as 'the number of times a child hits another child during recess.' What is this type of definition called?

Accepted Answer

Operational definition

Question 7

Which of the following best illustrates a negative correlation?

Accepted Answer

As temperature increases, heating bills decrease.

Question 8

Why is random sampling important in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

It ensures that all subgroups are included proportionally, increasing generalizability.

Question 9

A researcher gives a group of participants a placebo instead of the actual drug. What is the main purpose of this procedure?

Accepted Answer

To control for participant expectations and reduce subject bias.

Question 10

Which ethical principle requires that participants be told the true nature of a study after it is completed?

Accepted Answer

Debriefing

Question 11

A psychologist working from the humanistic perspective would most likely emphasize:

Accepted Answer

Personal growth, free will, and self-actualization.

Question 12

Which research method is best for studying rare or unusual cases in great detail?

Accepted Answer

Case study

Question 13

What is the main limitation of case studies in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

They cannot show causation.

Question 14

Which of the following is a confound in an experiment?

Accepted Answer

A variable that changes systematically with the independent variable but is not measured.

Question 15

A psychologist wants to avoid experimenter bias. What procedure should she use?

Accepted Answer

Double masked (blind) study

Question 16

Which sub-discipline of psychology focuses on the connections between biology and behavior?

Accepted Answer

Neuroscience (biopsychology)

Question 17

A psychologist is interested in how social settings and cultural expectations influence behavior. Which perspective is she using?

Accepted Answer

Socio-cultural Perspective

Question 18

Which of the following is true about animal research in psychology?

Accepted Answer

It is used to help both animals and people.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the process of random assignment in experiments?

Accepted Answer

Assigning participants to groups so each has an equal chance of being in any group.

Question 20

A psychologist wants to know if anxiety causes people to prefer waiting alone or with others. She randomly assigns anxious participants to wait alone or with others and measures their preference. What type of research is this?

Accepted Answer

Experimental research

Introduction to Psychology: Roots, Methods, and Perspectives

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