Research methods in psychology worksheet with answers

In a naturalistic observation, the researcher:

1. AAsks participants to complete a questionnaire about their everyday behaviour
2. BControls the environment in a laboratory
3. CRandomly assigns participants to conditions
4. DObserves behaviour in its usual setting without manipulating variables

A researcher places an advert asking for people to take part in a study. Which sampling method is this?

1. ASystematic sampling
2. BStratified sampling
3. COpportunity sampling
4. DVolunteer (self-selected) sampling

The median of the scores 3, 7, 8, 12, 20 is:

1. A7
2. B8
3. C10
4. D12

Experts check whether the items of a maths exam cover all topics in the syllabus. This assesses:

1. ATest-retest reliability
2. BPredictive validity
3. CContent validity
4. DEcological validity

In a field experiment, the researcher:

1. AOnly observes without manipulating anything
2. BAnalyses data collected by others
3. CManipulates the IV in a laboratory
4. DManipulates the IV in a real-world setting

Operationalisation means:

1. AChoosing a statistical test
2. BGiving participants instructions
3. CDefining variables in a precise, measurable way
4. DCarrying out the research in a real operational setting, such as a hospital

A test of "intelligence" measures mainly how fast people can type. Which type of validity is most clearly lacking?

1. AInternal consistency
2. BTest-retest reliability
3. CConstruct validity
4. DInter-rater reliability

A meta-analysis combines 40 studies of a therapy. Why might its overall effect size still be too large?

1. AMeta-analyses cannot include randomised trials
2. BCombining studies always removes all bias
3. CMeta-analyses always give smaller effects than the single studies they include
4. DPublication bias means unpublished null studies may be missing