Part I
Question 1
In social and behavioral sciences, research is defined as the methodical inquiry to explain, elucidate, foretell and control the phenomenon under observation. In social and behavioral science, research involves the use of different methods and techniques such as semiotics and hermeneutics. At times the more relativist epistemology is employed in the research process. In social and behavioral sciences, researchers do not conduct research to find the correct answer to a query; instead, they look into the details and issues entailed in the subject in question.
Question 2
Good psychological research is defined by four characteristics that outline its differences to scientific research. Though they do share some qualities that are found in all kinds of research, they still do maintain unique characteristics that set each of them apart.
Both scientific and psychological researches are characterized by a theoretical framework where there exists a systematic method of organization and explanation. However, there exist distinct differences in the form of:
- Standardized procedures: whereas in psychological research, the participants in the study are exposed to procedures that are similar in all ways, scientific research does not necessarily have to follow this criterion. Almost always, scientific research introduces variations
- Generalizability of research is one attribute that is unique to psychological research. This is the relevance and sensibility of the procedure to circumstances outside the laboratory of research. This is the applicability of the procedure outside the laboratory. This component is not always present in scientific research. This is because scientific research almost always deals with the introduction of variables that alter or inhibit the generalizability of the particular research and research topic.
- Objective measurement is the application of measures that are not only reliable, but also produce consistent results. This is dependent on the generalizability of the research. This is not always possible in scientific research since it entails the introduction of numerous variables.
Works Cited
Goodwin, C. J., & Goodwin, K. A. (2013). Research in psychology: Methods and design. Hoobken: Wiley.
