1. Research Methods

2.  Whole theories are never tested directly – rather, specific hypotheses derived from a theory’s propositions are tested through research – the theory is then supported, or not.  It is research that allows us to explore the relationships among events and to establish meaningful principles relating to personality – there is a continuous interplay between research and theory.  The cornerstone of scientific method is a commitment to putting ideas to the empirical test – we determine by careful observation or experimentation the precise facts or relationships between variables

3. Why is it important to put theories to empirical tests?  Intolerance of error  Clarity and precision in developing ideas –Ex: operational definitions

4. Types of research 1.Observation Problems: 1) no control 2) observer bias and expectations 3) generalization problems 4) reactivity Advantage: realistic – not contrived/artificial

5. Types of Research (cont.) 2.Case Study - the detailed study of a single individual’s behavior over an extended period of time. Advantages – allows for a description of the complexities and idiosyncrasies of an individual’s personality which is generally lacking from other research strategies  Problems: cannot be sure of cause/effect relationships  Limited generality  Information is retrospective  Conclusions subject to the personal biases of the researcher

6. Types of Research (cont.) 3.Correlational Method – to determine the strength of relationships between and among variables. strength of relationships between and among variables. Advantages: 1) allows researchers to study a broad range of variables that could not be examined with experimental procedures 2) makes it possible to examine many aspects of personality in natural, real-world settings (effects of divorce on academic performance, etc) 3) allows prediction

7. Types of Research (cont.) Correlational Method Serious drawbacks: (1)Correlation does not imply causality, and (2)possible confounding effects of third variables

8. Types of Research (cont.) 4.Formal Experimental Methodology – the only way to establish cause and effect relationships. 2 groups – experimental and control – equivalent through random sampling and random assignment - Manipulate IV – look for changes in the DV. Changes in DV must be due to changes in the IV.

9. Types of Research (cont.) Formal Experimental Methodology Advantage – allows researchers to control/predict and understand phenomena. Limitations: Unethical to investigate certain questions Artificiality Artifacts – reactivity, demand characteristics, experimenter bias