The Application of Scientific Method in Psychology
- Created by: Katie
- Created on: 03-03-11 17:18
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Science
- a means of finding out about our world, i.e. gaining knowledge.
Scientists use the scientific method, the key features are:
- Empiricism - information is gained through direct observation or experiment rather tan by a reasoned argument or unfounded beliefs. E.g. McDo's burgers.
- Objectivity - scientists strive to be objective in their observations and measurements, i.e. their expectations should not affect what they record.
- Replicability - repeating the observation to demonstrate validity.
- Control - in order to determine causal relationships, we must use the experimental method, i.e. IV and DV. All other condition must be 'controlled'.
- Theory Construction - using facts to construct theories. A theory is a collection of general principles that explain observations and facts.
The Scientific Process
Inductive Model: Observations --> Hypothesis Developed --> Hypothesis Tested --> Data used to construct Theory.
Deductive Model: Observations --> Propose Theory --> Hypothesis Developed --> Hypothesis Tested --> Draw Conclusions.
Is Psychology a Science?
Psychology is a science in that it shares the goals of all sciences and the uses of…
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