Developmental Psychology

Achieve Test Prep: Developmental Psychology

o Example: Parent and child interactions are recorded via videotape with parental consent. The child does not know they are being observed. The scientist analyzes the tapes after the experiment.

2. Experiment • Tests a hypothesis in a controlled situation (a laboratory, for example) • Can determine cause and effect • Utilizes dependent and independent variable o Independent Variable: a variable that the researcher can change/manipulate o Dependent Variable: a variable that changes in response to the independent variable o Limitations: The behavior can be altered and the subjects are aware of being observed, thus experimental bias may occur. o Example: A researcher wants to determine if caffeine intake affects infant development (hypothesis). Two groups are chosen, an experimental and control group . The subjects are randomly assigned to these groups. The experimental group received the treatment (caffeine), while the control group receives no treatment (no caffeine). The control group may be given a placebo , or ‘fake’ treatment.  After the groups are randomly assigned, the researcher will study the effects of caffeine by measuring the heart rate and sleeping patterns of the infants. 3. Survey: • Researchers ask individuals for information about themselves, a given topic, or their opinions • Interviews and questionnaires are the main mediums of conducting surveys • May be conducted in person, over the phone, through mail, or via the internet • Limitations: Individuals may not be truthful or may change their answers based on preconceived notions of what they believe they should say o Example: The US Census is a survey that the federal government performs every ten years to collect demographic data

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