Psychological Research Methods and Ethics https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJG698U2Mvo The Scientific Experimental Method **In an experiment, something causes something observable to happen** -- Cause and Effect -Hypothesis Independent Variable: Changed or introduced by researcher Dependent Variable: Changes depend on the Independent Variable Control Group: - Does NOT receive the Independent Variable - Is used as a comparison to see the effect of the Independent Variable Experimental Group: - Receives the Independent Variable - Is compared against the Control Group to see the effect of the Independent Variable • Random Assignment: • Leading Questions: The use of chance procedures to ensure that each participant has the same opportunity to be assigned to any group Questions asked in a way to suggest an answer How much will prices go up this year? I really hate this government!! What are your thoughts on the Conservative party? Is it true that you are happier now? Did you see the Badger? Types of Research Methods The Double Blind Experiment vs. Single Blind Experiment • Single Blind: The participants of the experiment do not know which experimental group they are in. • Double Blind: Neither the researcher nor the participants know which experimental group the participants are in. • This is the ideal experimental model!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v =Sq4S6ArE7wc Questionnaires and Surveys Why do psychologists use Questionnaires and Surveys? What are the advantages? Disadvantages? Observation •Hypothesis: Red cars go faster than other cars •Method: Sit and measure… and sit and measure… Ethical Practice What does ‘Ethics’ mean? • Ethics: Moral Principles which govern behaviour or practice. What is unethical in the following experiments? Little Albert 1920 • John Watson conditions a fear of furry creatures into a baby which remains with the child for decades. https://www.youtube .com/watch?v=HZP XVb0W3Hc • The Landis Facial Expressions Experiment 1924 • The Monster Study 1939 The Robbers Cave Experiment The Facebook Psychological Experiments https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W XsNh7QV_4Y Ethical Principles of Psychological Research •To keep participants completely informed; openness and honesty •The participants may back out; there are clear responsibilities and intentions •To protect participants from physical and mental discomfort, harm or danger •To warn participants of any risk