The Science of Psychology

Psychologists develop theories and conduct psychological research to answer questions about behavior and mental processes; these answers can impact individuals and society.

The scientific method, a means to gain knowledge, refers to ways in which questions are asked and the logic and methods used to gain answers.

Two important characteristics of the scientific method are an empirical approach and a skeptical attitude.

Science in Context

Science occurs in at least three contexts: historical, social-cultural, and moral contexts.

Historical Context

An empirical approach, which relies on direct observation and experimentation for answering questions, was critical for developing the science of psychology.

The computer revolution has been a key factor in the shift from behaviorism to cognitive psychology as the dominant theme in psychological inquiry.

Social and Cultural Context

The social and cultural context influences researchers' choice of topics, society's acceptance of findings, and the locations in which research takes place.

Ethnocentrism occurs when people's views of another culture are biased by the framework or lens of their own culture.

Moral Context

The moral context of research demands that researchers maintain the highest standards of ethical behavior.

The APA's code of ethics guides research and helps researchers to evaluate ethical dilemmas such as the risks and benefits associated with deception and the use of animals in research.

Thinking Like a Researcher

To "think like a researcher" is to be skeptical regarding claims about the causes of behavior and mental processes, even those that are made on the basis of "published" scientific findings.

The strongest evidence for a claim about behavior comes from converging evidence across many studies, although scientists recognize that claims are always probabilistic.

A research hypothesis is a tentative explanation for a phenomenon; it is often stated in the form of a prediction together with an explanation for the predicted outcome.

A multimethod approach, one that searches for answers using various research methodologies and measures, is psychology's best hope for understanding behavior and the mind.

Evaluating Research Findings Reported in the Media

Not all science reported in the media is "good science." We must question what we read and hear.

Media reports summarizing original research reports may omit critical aspects of the method, results, or interpretation of the research.

Getting Started Doing Research

When beginning a research study, students can answer the first question of "what to study?" by reviewing psychological topics in psychology journals, textbooks, and courses.

Researchers develop a hypothesis by reading reports of psychological research.

To decide if their research question is a good one, researchers consider the scientific importance, scope, and likely outcomes of the research, and whether psychological science will be advanced.