ASPPB Research Methods & Psychological Foundations

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of using a control group in an experiment?

Accepted Answer

To provide a comparison for the experimental group

Answer

The primary purpose of using a control group in an experiment is to provide a baseline for comparison against the experimental group. The control group does not receive the experimental treatment or intervention, allowing researchers to isolate the effects of the independent variable. By comparing the outcomes of the experimental group to the control group, researchers can determine if the intervention had a significant impact.

Question 2

Which research method is best suited for establishing cause-and-effect relationships?

Accepted Answer

Experiment

Answer

The experimental research method is best suited for establishing cause-and-effect relationships because it allows researchers to manipulate an independent variable while controlling for other factors. By randomly assigning participants to experimental and control groups and systematically varying the independent variable, researchers can confidently infer that any observed differences in the dependent variable are due to the manipulation.

Question 3

What does a negative correlation indicate?

Accepted Answer

As one increases, the other decreases

Answer

A negative correlation indicates an inverse relationship between two variables. This means that as the value of one variable increases, the value of the other variable tends to decrease. For example, a negative correlation might exist between the amount of sleep a person gets and their level of irritability, where more sleep is associated with less irritability.

Question 4

What is the dependent variable in an experiment?

Accepted Answer

The variable that is measured

Answer

In an experiment, the dependent variable is the outcome that is observed and measured by the researcher. It is the variable that is expected to change in response to the manipulation of the independent variable. Researchers analyze the dependent variable to determine the effect of their experimental intervention.

Question 5

Which of the following is a key ethical principle in psychological research?

Accepted Answer

Informed consent

Answer

Informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle in psychological research, ensuring participants understand the study's nature, risks, and benefits before agreeing to participate. It respects their autonomy and right to make an educated decision about their involvement. This principle helps protect participants from harm and ensures ethical conduct.

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

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

ASPPB Research Methods & Psychological Foundations