Question 1

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a theory in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

A theory is a broad explanation and prediction concerning observations of interest.

Question 2

In the context of the scientific method, what is the correct sequence of steps as depicted in the flowchart?

Accepted Answer

Identify questions of interest → Formulate an explanation → Carry out research → Communicate the findings

Question 3

Which research method involves observing naturally occurring behavior without intervention and is limited by the inability to control variables?

Accepted Answer

Naturalistic observation

Question 4

A psychologist wants to test the hypothesis: 'The more people who witness an emergency, the less likely it is that help will be given.' What is the operational definition in this scenario?

Accepted Answer

The translation of the hypothesis into specific, testable procedures that can be measured and observed.

Question 5

Which of the following is a disadvantage of survey research?

Accepted Answer

Respondents may not be truthful or may be unaware of their true attitudes.

Question 6

What is the main limitation of correlational research?

Accepted Answer

It cannot demonstrate cause-and-effect relationships.

Question 7

If a correlation coefficient is $$+0.85$$, what does this indicate about the relationship between two variables?

Accepted Answer

There is a strong positive relationship between the variables.

Question 8

In an experiment, what is the purpose of the control group?

Accepted Answer

To serve as a comparison group that does not receive the treatment.

Question 9

Which of the following best illustrates the concept of random assignment in experimental research?

Accepted Answer

Assigning participants to groups by chance alone.

Question 10

A psychologist finds a correlation of $$-0.70$$ between hours of sleep and levels of stress. What does this mean?

Accepted Answer

As hours of sleep increase, levels of stress decrease.

Question 11

Which of the following is a key ethical requirement for psychological research involving human participants?

Accepted Answer

Participants must be informed about the nature of the procedures before participating.

Question 12

What is the main advantage of using animals in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

It allows for greater experimental control and procedures not possible with humans.

Question 13

What is a placebo, and why is it used in experiments?

Accepted Answer

A placebo is a false treatment used to control for participant expectations.

Question 14

Which procedure ensures that neither the experimenter nor the participant knows who is receiving the actual treatment?

Accepted Answer

Double-blind procedure

Question 15

A researcher repeats a previous study using a new group of participants and a different setting. What is this process called?

Accepted Answer

Replicated research

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the dependent variable in an experiment?

Accepted Answer

The variable that is measured and expected to change as a result of manipulation.

Question 17

Why is statistical significance important in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

It indicates that the findings are meaningful and unlikely to be due to random variation.

Question 18

Which research method would be most appropriate for studying the long-term effects of a rare brain injury in a single individual?

Accepted Answer

Case study

Question 19

What is the main disadvantage of using archival research?

Accepted Answer

The data may be incomplete or not in a usable form.

Question 20

Which of the following is an example of experimental bias?

Accepted Answer

A researcher unintentionally gives cues to participants about how to behave.

Psychological Research: The Scientific Method and Research Strategies

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