2. The Science of Psychology
Psychology is a very broad subject that
covers:
Human behavior
Nonhuman behavior
Physiological processes and structures related to
behavior
Conceptual processes used to explain behavior
A scientific approach is used in
Psychology to advance our knowledge of
the subject matter.
3. It spans multiple levels of analysis
What is Psychology?
4. Why do we examine research
methodology?
How does the way we look at a question
impact the answers we get?
What does it mean to empirically study
a question? How does this differ from
Introspection like that done by
Philosophers?
5. Scientific vs Non-scientific
Approaches
Science isn’t a body of knowledge.
It is a systematic approach to evidence.
Empiricism = knowledge should be acquired
through observation
Tested & revised as needed = the scientific
method!
6. What is scientific theory?
An explanation for a large number of findings
in the natural world, including the
psychological world.
Accounts for existing data AND
Generates predictions
A testable prediction is called a hypothesis.
7. Goals of Science
Description of behavior
Prediction of behavior
Determining Causes of behavior
Explanation of behavior
8. Determination of Cause
Temporal precedence
cause event
Co-variation of cause and effect
cause => event > cause ≠> event
Alternative explanations have been
eliminated.
9. Types of Research
Basic Research
Theoretical
Applied Research
Practical application