Psychological Research Methods

1. Experimental Methods
   1. Characteristics of Experimental Research
      1. Definition of experimental research
      2. Emphasis on causality
      3. Manipulation of variables
      4. Use of control measures
      5. Repeatability and replicability
   2. Types of Experiments
      1. Laboratory Experiments
         1. Conducted in controlled environments
         2. High internal validity
         3. Control over extraneous variables
         4. Examples and key studies
      2. Field Experiments
         1. Conducted in natural settings
         2. Balancing control with ecological validity
         3. Real-world applicability
         4. Challenges in controlling variables
      3. Natural Experiments
         1. Utilization of naturally occurring variables
         2. No manipulation by researchers
         3. Examples in psychology and social sciences
         4. Limitations in internal validity
   3. Components of Experiments
      1. Independent Variables
         1. Definition and purpose
         2. Types of independent variables
         3. Strategies for manipulation
      2. Dependent Variables
         1. Measurement and operationalization
         2. Importance of reliability and validity
         3. Examples across various fields of psychology
      3. Control Groups
         1. Role in establishing causal relationships
         2. Types of control groups
         3. Use of placebos and sham procedures
      4. Experimental Groups
         1. Exposure to the independent variable
         2. Comparison to control groups
         3. Ensuring experimental manipulation
   4. Random Assignment
      1. Importance for establishing causality
      2. Techniques for random assignment
         1. Computerized randomization
         2. Block randomization
         3. Stratified randomization
      3. Challenges and solutions
      4. Statistical implications of random assignment
   5. Advantages of Experimental Methods
      1. Establishing cause-and-effect relationships
      2. Control over extraneous variables
      3. High internal validity
      4. Replicability of studies
   6. Limitations of Experimental Methods
      1. Issues with ecological validity
      2. Ethical constraints in manipulation
      3. Participant bias and demand characteristics
      4. Procedural limitations and constraints
   7. Ethical Considerations in Experimental Research
      1. Importance of informed consent
      2. Managing potential harm or distress
      3. Addressing issues of deception
      4. Debriefing and follow-up
      5. Ensuring the right to withdraw
      6. Compliance with institutional and international guidelines