Scientific research helps us understand a complex world without relying only on intuition, authority, or luck. This lesson introduces why evidence matters and how psychologists study behavior and the processes behind it.
People can feel certain about how the world works and still be wrong. Throughout history, beliefs such as a flat Earth or the idea that mental illness was caused by possession were accepted without reliable evidence. Systematic research helps people question preconceived notions and replace unsupported explanations with knowledge grounded in observation.
All flashcards
Why is scientific research important?
It tests claims against evidence, helping people move beyond intuition, authority, and unsupported assumptions.
What does psychology investigate?
Behavior and the cognitive (mental) and physiological (bodily) processes related to it.
How does a theory differ from a hypothesis?
A theory explains observed phenomena; a hypothesis makes a specific, testable prediction.
What is inductive reasoning?
Reasoning from particular observations toward broader patterns or general ideas.
What is scientific consensus?
General agreement among the scientific community based on the available evidence.
Quiz questions
When evaluating a claim presented as scientific, which approach is most useful?Answer: Consider the source’s expertise and motives, the evidence, and other researchers’ conclusions.
Two studies of technology report different outcomes in different groups. What is the most reasonable conclusion?Answer: The findings may concern different populations or outcomes, so broader conclusions need more research.
Which contribution is associated with Margaret Floy Washburn?Answer: She was the first woman to earn a psychology PhD and studied animal behavior and cognition.
What makes a scientific hypothesis falsifiable?Answer: Some possible empirical observation could show that its prediction is incorrect.
Which statement best distinguishes facts from opinions in scientific inquiry?Answer: Facts are observable realities; opinions are personal judgments that require evidence to assess.
Based on Psychology 2e by Rose M. Spielman, William J. Jenkins, Marilyn D. Lovett (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.