Question 1

Which of the following best describes the scientific method as used in psychological science?

Accepted Answer

A way of learning about the world through collecting observations, developing theories to explain them, and using the theories to make predictions.

Question 2

Which of the following statements about theories in psychology is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Theories must be testable and based on observable and measurable evidence.

Question 3

A student claims that psychology is just 'common sense.' According to the scientific approach, why is this statement problematic?

Accepted Answer

Because psychological science relies on systematic observation and empirical evidence, not just intuition or beliefs.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of applying the biopsychosocial model to understanding behavior?

Accepted Answer

Explaining depression as a result of genetic predisposition, negative thought patterns, and stressful life events.

Question 5

Which historical approach in psychology focused on the relationship between physical stimuli and mental experiences?

Accepted Answer

Psychophysics

Question 6

Fechner's Law is associated with which area of psychological study?

Accepted Answer

The quantitative relationship between stimulus intensity and perceived sensation.

Question 7

Which of the following best illustrates the concept 'cells that fire together wire together'?

Accepted Answer

Repeated activation of certain neural pathways strengthens the connections between those neurons.

Question 8

A researcher wants to test whether distributed practice improves memory retention. According to the scientific method, what is the next step after forming a hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

Design and conduct an experiment to collect data.

Question 9

Which of the following is NOT a key feature of the scientific method in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Accepting results based on authority or tradition.

Question 10

Which scenario best demonstrates the use of introspection in early psychology?

Accepted Answer

A participant describes their conscious experience while looking at a painting.

Question 11

Which of the following best represents the difference between a hypothesis and a theory in psychological science?

Accepted Answer

A hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction; a theory is a broader explanation supported by evidence.

Question 12

Which of the following is an example of a multi-step application of the scientific method in psychology?

Accepted Answer

Observing a pattern in memory recall, forming a hypothesis about distributed practice, designing an experiment, collecting data, and analyzing results.

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the main focus of contemporary psychology?

Accepted Answer

The scientific study of behavior, experience, and the factors that influence them.

Question 14

A psychologist is interested in how both genetic predispositions and cultural expectations influence anxiety. Which model is the psychologist using?

Accepted Answer

Biopsychosocial model

Question 15

Which of the following is a common misconception about the scientific method in psychology?

Accepted Answer

That a theory is proven true if enough people believe in it.

Question 16

Which of the following best illustrates the concept of 'distributed practice' in learning?

Accepted Answer

Studying material over several sessions spaced out over time.

Question 17

Which of the following equations best represents Fechner's Law in psychophysics?

Accepted Answer

$$S = k \cdot \log(I)$$

Question 18

A psychologist is designing an experiment to test a new theory about memory. Which step should come immediately after collecting data?

Accepted Answer

Analyze the data to determine if the results support or refute the theory.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the role of peer review in psychological science?

Accepted Answer

It ensures that research findings are evaluated by other experts before publication.

Question 20

Which of the following is an example of a testable hypothesis in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

Students who use distributed practice will score higher on memory tests than those who cram.

Introduction & Psychological Science: Course Overview and Foundations

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards