Question 1

Which of the following best describes the scientific method as outlined in psychology?

Accepted Answer

A system of observing, predicting, and testing using collected observations and developing theories to explain them.

Question 2

Which of the following hypotheses is considered falsifiable according to the scientific method?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol reduces the quality of sleep.

Question 3

A student claims that 'theories are just opinions or beliefs.' Why is this a misconception?

Accepted Answer

Because theories are explanations for a broad range of observations and generate new hypotheses.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of a biological influence on brain behaviour?

Accepted Answer

Hormones

Question 5

A researcher wants to test whether exercise improves memory. Which step of the scientific method is this?

Accepted Answer

Formulating a hypothesis

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a principle of scientific literacy?

Accepted Answer

Accepting claims without evidence

Question 7

Which perspective in psychology focuses on genetics, brain structures, and chemicals?

Accepted Answer

Biological

Question 8

A psychologist is studying how peer groups influence adolescent decision-making. Which factor is being examined?

Accepted Answer

Sociological

Question 9

Which of the following statements about theories is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

The quality of a theory is not related to the number of people who believe it.

Question 10

Which of the following is an example of pseudoscience?

Accepted Answer

An idea presented as science but does not utilize basic principles of scientific thinking or procedure.

Question 11

If a psychologist is interested in how culture shapes behaviour, which type of influence are they studying?

Accepted Answer

Sociological

Question 12

Which of the following best illustrates the principle of self-correction in science?

Accepted Answer

Bad ideas are revised and refined based on new evidence.

Question 13

A psychologist is examining the effects of external substances (drugs) on behaviour. Which perspective is most relevant?

Accepted Answer

Biological

Question 14

Which of the following is a key component of critical thinking in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Examining the nature and source of evidence

Question 15

A student is designing an experiment to test the hypothesis: 'People are less likely to help a stranger if there are others around.' Which concept does this hypothesis illustrate?

Accepted Answer

It is precise and testable.

Question 16

Which of the following is an example of a psychological influence on brain behaviour?

Accepted Answer

Memories

Question 17

A researcher collects data, develops a theory, and then uses the theory to make predictions. What is the next step in the scientific method?

Accepted Answer

Test the predictions with new observations.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the focus of the sociocultural perspective in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Family, peers, ethnicity, and culture

Question 19

Which of the following is a practice question that helps develop critical thinking skills?

Accepted Answer

Scientific and critical thinking involve the use of the principle of parsimony.

Question 20

A psychologist is interested in how emotions and personalities shape responses to situations. Which type of influence is being studied?

Accepted Answer

Psychological

Foundations of Psychology: Scientific Method, Theories, and Influences on Behavior

Study Guide - Practice Questions

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