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Chapter 2: Problem 4

Why should psychologists question the results of an experiment that they have conducted for the first time?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Psychologists should question the results of an experiment conducted for the first time to ensure the study's validity and reliability, to check for any potential biases, and to understand that repetition and peer reviews are essential parts of the scientific process.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the Nature of Experimental Research

In experimental research, especially in psychology, a study is designed to test a specific hypothesis by manipulating and controlling certain variables. However, there are several factors that might affect the outcome. Therefore, initial results may not always be accurate.
02

Importance of Validity and Reliability

When psychologists conduct an experiment for the first time, they should question the results to ensure validity and reliability. Validity refers to how accurately an experiment measures what it is intended to measure. Reliability is about consistency, meaning that an experiment is reliable if it will produce the same results when conducted under the same conditions.
03

Detection of Potential Biases

Experiments can be influenced by various biases. For instance, experimenter bias occurs when researchers unconsciously affect participants and influence the results. Also, there could be a selection bias which happens when participants aren't randomly assigned to groups in an experiment. Questioning results can help identify these and reduce their impact.
04

Repetition and Peer Review

The first-time results of an experiment should be questioned because an experiment should be repeated to confirm its results, and these findings should be peer-reviewed to ensure the investigation was conducted properly and the results can be trusted.

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