ASPPB Research Methods & Psychological Foundations 2

Question 1

A researcher finds a Pearson r = 0.65 between depression scores and sleep quality. Which conclusion is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

There is a moderate positive relationship between the two variables

Answer

A correlation coefficient of 0.65 indicates a moderate positive relationship but does not imply causation.

Question 2

Which experimental design best controls for history effects in longitudinal research?

Accepted Answer

Solomon four-group design

Answer

The Solomon four-group design controls for both testing effects and history effects by including groups with and without pretests.

Question 3

A psychologist uses snowball sampling to recruit participants with a rare phobia. The primary limitation of this approach is:

Accepted Answer

Non-random selection leading to limited generalizability

Answer

Snowball sampling relies on participant referrals, producing a non-random sample that may not generalize to the broader population.

Question 4

In signal detection theory, a 'miss' refers to:

Accepted Answer

Failing to detect a signal that is actually present

Answer

A miss (false negative) occurs when a signal is present but the observer fails to detect it.

Question 5

Which statistical test is most appropriate when comparing means across three or more independent groups?

Accepted Answer

One-way ANOVA

Answer

One-way ANOVA is designed to compare means across three or more independent groups while controlling the Type I error rate.

(ASPPB) Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards Practice Test