psychological knowledge is advanced through a process known as ________, which involves a prescribed series of steps designed to achieve the desired knowledge.
psychological knowledge is advanced through a process known as ________, which involves a prescribed series of steps designed to achieve the desired knowledge.
Answer: Psychological knowledge is advanced through a process known as “scientific research,” which involves a prescribed series of steps designed to achieve the desired knowledge. These steps typically include:
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Formulating a Research Question or Hypothesis: Researchers start by identifying a specific question or hypothesis they want to investigate in the field of psychology.
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Conducting a Literature Review: Researchers review existing literature and studies related to their research question to build on existing knowledge and identify gaps in understanding.
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Designing the Study: Researchers design a research study or experiment, including selecting appropriate methods, measures, and participants.
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Data Collection: Researchers collect data through experiments, surveys, observations, or other methods.
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Data Analysis: Researchers analyze the collected data using statistical or qualitative analysis techniques to draw conclusions.
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Interpreting Results: Researchers interpret the findings of the study in the context of the research question or hypothesis.
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Publishing and Peer Review: Researchers typically publish their findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals, allowing other experts in the field to assess and validate the research.
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Replication and Further Research: Scientific research often involves replication studies to verify initial findings and may lead to further research on related questions or areas of inquiry.
This scientific process is fundamental to advancing knowledge in psychology and many other fields, as it helps ensure that findings are reliable, valid, and can contribute to the existing body of knowledge.