as psychology py2. psychologists, like all scientists, use the scientific method to produce valid...
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The use of the scientific method in Psychology
AS PsychologyPY2
Psychologists, like all scientists, use the Scientific Method to produce valid explanations of the world around them.
Introduction
The Scientific process starts with OBSERVATION of behaviour or other phenomena in the world.
this then leads to the developments of a theory (TENTATIVE explanation)
A study is conducted to test hypotheses that come from the theory
Conclusions are drawn from the findings of the study.
The Scientific Method
Scientific methodMake Observations
Theory
Life emerges from non-
living matter
Hypothesis
Mice emerge from dirty
socks
Experiment
Place dirty socks in a
glass jar for a few days
No mice!!!!
Reject the theory
Come up with a better one
Example: the spontaneous generation
theory
Referring back to the definition of ‘Scientific’, any research can be considered scientific as long as it collects data in an objective, controlled manner.
The following research methods have been put in order of how scientific they are considered to be.
Lab Experiments Field Experiments Natural Experiments Interviews/Questionnaires Observations
Scientific Method
Describe the observations made by Zimbardo in the early 1970’s.
What were the two competing theories used to explain these observations
Describe the experiment Zimbardo used to try and choose between these competing theories.
What did Zimbardo find? Which theory did the findings seem to support?
The Stanford Prison Study by Philip Zimbardo (p133-5)
Was the study valid? – Use the information on p135 to support your view.
Was the study reliable? – Use the information on p135 to support your view.
Was the study ethical? – Use the information on p135 to support your view.
The Stanford Prison Study by Philip Zimbardo (p133-5)