Developmental Psychology

Achieve Test Prep: Developmental Psychology

Chapter 2: Research Methods in Psychology

Overview: In this chapter, various types of research methods of general psychology and Developmental Psychology will be explored. Understanding the basic premises for research will aid in the collection of complete information for superior patient care. In addition to exploring various types of research, this chapter will also emphasize how to collect and analyze information. Objectives: By this end of this chapter, you should be able to recognize, understand, and explain the following: • The Scientific Method • Various research methods and their usage in Developmental Psychology • Methods of selecting a research population • Research ethics The Scientific Method: All research, regardless of the type of field, uses the Scientific Method to collect research information. The steps of the Scientific Method are: 1. Formulate a research question 2. Develop a hypothesis 3. Test the hypothesis by conducting research which confirms or rejects the hypothesis 4. Draw conclusions based on your test results 5. Publish findings to make your information available

Methods:

1. Naturalistic Observation • Observation of individuals in ‘real-life’ situations • Scientist does not influence the situation • Limitations: inability to link cause and effect or generalize results

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