How Do Psychologists Study the Mind?

To find out what makes us tick, psychologists use different research methods. These help ensure their findings are reliable and valid.

Types of Research

• Experiments: Researchers manipulate one variable to see its effect on another.
• Correlational Studies: Look for relationships between variables without changing them.
• Surveys and Questionnaires: Collect large amounts of data from many people.
• Case Studies: In-depth studies of a single person or group.
• Naturalistic Observation: Watch people in their natural environments.

Key Terms

• Independent Variable: The thing that's changed in an experiment.
• Dependent Variable: What’s measured to see if it was affected.
• Control Group: The group that doesn’t receive the treatment.
• Random Assignment: Ensures every participant has an equal chance of being in any group.

Why It Matters

Understanding research methods helps us tell good science from myths, like separating real memory boosters from placebos.