Chapter 2 Research Process Part 2: Jan. 26, 2012

Research Process steps (cont.) Random sampling and random assignment – RS: – RA: – Results of random sampling example: – Results of random assignment example:

The Correlational Method: determines if two variables are related – Correlation coefficient: Positive, negative, or no correlation? Cannot make cause-effect conclusions. – Often a third variable can explain relations between 2 variables under study – Example? Need experiments to determine cause-effect

Experimental Methods: manipulate variables in attempt to examine cause  effect About 3/4ths of Social Psych research. Most is done in lab settings. 2 distinguishing factors: – 1. – 2.

Advantages of Correlational vs. Experimental Research Adv of Corr Research: – 1) – 2) Adv of Exp Research: – 1) – 2)

Step 4: Interpreting results Independent variables: what is manipulated – Examples? Song lyrics study – Harassment study – Dependent variables: observed to determine impact of IV – Examples? Song lyrics study – Harassment study -

Subject variables: cannot be manipulated – Examples - Statistical significance: – Need to determine how likely it is we’d get these results just by chance.

External validity – questions related to whether results will generalize – How can this be assessed? Problems with convenience samples – Mundane realism – Experimental realism - Internal validity – questions related to whether IV causes effects on the DV – How can this be assessed? Use of control groups – Experimenter expectancies -

Deception Use of deception in some experiments – Types of deception: – Confederates – how are they used? Benefits of deception? Ethical concerns?

Ethical Issues Should reduce stress for the participant – Cost/Benefit analysis – Institutional Review Board (IRB) approves studies – Must obtain informed consent: – Debriefing after the study: