The Application of Scientific Method in Psychology

Science

- a means of finding out about our world, i.e. gaining knowledge.

Scientists use the scientific method, the key features are:

• Empiricism - information is gained through direct observation or experiment rather tan by a reasoned argument or unfounded beliefs. E.g. McDo's burgers.
• Objectivity - scientists strive to be objective in their observations and measurements, i.e. their expectations should not affect what they record.
• Replicability - repeating the observation to demonstrate validity.
• Control - in order to determine causal relationships, we must use the experimental method, i.e. IV and DV. All other condition must be 'controlled'.
• Theory Construction - using facts to construct theories. A theory is a collection of general principles that explain observations and facts.

The Scientific Process

Inductive Model: Observations --> Hypothesis Developed --> Hypothesis Tested --> Data used to construct Theory.

Deductive Model: Observations --> Propose Theory --> Hypothesis Developed --> Hypothesis Tested --> Draw Conclusions.

Is Psychology a Science?

Psychology is a science in that it shares the goals of all sciences and the uses of…