Psychology as a science

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Psychology as a science

scientific study of how people think feel and act

based on scientific attitude

trying to understand issues and problems

application of a variety of research tools

uses scientific methods

empirical evidence for conclusions

Steps in the scientific method

Identify research issue

ID problem to investigate

Test a theory

Develop a theory

find answers to a practical problem or issue

Develop exact research question or hypothesis

exact research question for carrying out exploratory research

hypothesis for testing a prediction

Choose research design or method

appropriate for collecting data

participants?

how many?

techniques to gather data

Collect data

time consuming

Analyse data

systematically organise and analyse

statistical procedures

Interpret data

interpret the results

support hypothesis?

answer question?

application of findings?

directions for further research?

Report findings

communicate findings

reports, journals, articles

talks at conferences or feedback to interested parties

theoretical implications and practical applications are known to others in the same field