Introduction to Psychological Enquiry
Psychology is more than treating mental illness; it's a rigorous scientific discipline for understanding human thought, feeling, and behavior. This section outlines the foundations of psychological enquiry, a systematic process that uses empirical research methods to study experience and mental processes.
A Scientific Approach
Psychology earns its place as a science through its use of systematic observations, controlled conditions, and empirical research methods to study behavior, experience, and mental processes.
Nature of Psychological Data
Data encompasses covert and overt behaviors, mental processes, subjective experiences, and contextual factors (physical, cultural, genetic). Crucially, data must always be interpreted within context.
Paradigms of Research
Scientific Tradition
Assumes behavior is observable, measurable, and predictable. Relies on controlled, empirical methods for objective conclusions.
Interpretive Tradition
Focuses on meaning-making. Views behavior as complex and context-bound, emphasizing subjective understanding within a social context.
The Five Goals of Psychological Enquiry
Psychologists pursue five key objectives in their research, forming the foundational aims of the discipline. Click on each goal below to reveal its precise definition and an illustrative example.
Select a goal above to see its description and application example.
Steps in Scientific Research
Scientific research is a structured and often iterative process. This flow diagram illustrates the four main steps, from initial conceptualization to theory revision. Click on any step to expand on its specific activities.
Select a step in the research cycle to see its requirements and procedures.
Important Research Methods
The study of behavior requires diverse tools. This section offers a comprehensive overview of the six primary methods, including their pros, cons, and unique applications. Use the horizontal menu below to explore each method in detail.
Ethical Issues in Psychological Research
All research must uphold the dignity and welfare of participants. These are the core ethical principles that researchers must follow. Click on each principle to understand its requirements in practice.