Successful ERQs (based on InThinking)

Which of the following is an example of sampling bias?

• Using a large, diverse sample

• Randomly assigning participants

• Choosing participants based on diversity

• Choosing participants from a single cultural group

Answer explanation

Sampling bias occurs when the sample is not representative of the population, limiting generalisability.

What is one way to control for researcher bias in a study?

• Asking open-ended questions

• Conducting a field experiment

• Increasing the sample size

• Using a double-blind procedure

Answer explanation

A double-blind procedure ensures that neither the researcher nor the participant knows the study's purpose, reducing bias.

What type of validity is most critical when assessing causality in a study?

• Ecological validity

• Predictive validity

• Construct validity

• Internal validity

Answer explanation

Internal validity refers to whether a study can establish a cause-and-effect relationship between variables.

Domino causality refers to:

• A single variable causing an outcome

• Variables that cannot be measured

• Retrospective studies

• A chain reaction of variables affecting behaviour

Answer explanation

Domino causality describes how multiple variables interact and influence behaviour in a sequence.

How does anecdotal data differ from empirical data?

• Anecdotal data is statistically analysed.

• Empirical data cannot be measured.

• Empirical data is unreliable.

• Anecdotal data is based on personal accounts

Answer explanation

Anecdotal data relies on subjective experiences, whereas empirical data is systematically collected and analysed.

A limitation of using self-reported data is:

• It is highly objective.

• It reflects only qualitative data.

• It is difficult to replicate.

• It may lead to social desirability bias

Answer explanation

Self-reported data can be influenced by participants wanting to present themselves favourably, reducing reliability.

Emic approaches focus on:

• Universal behaviours across cultures

• Biological factors of behaviour

• Ethical considerations

• Culturally specific behaviours

Answer explanation

Emic approaches study behaviours from within a culture, emphasising cultural uniqueness.

What is a potential limitation of using reductionist approaches in psychological research?

• They are too holistic in nature.

• They focus only on qualitative data.

• They account for cultural influences.

• They oversimplify complex behaviours

Answer explanation

Reductionism breaks down behaviour into basic components, ignoring its complexity and context.

Ethical guidelines in psychological research help ensure:

• Generalisability of findings

• Greater sample sizes

• Ecological validity

• Participant protection and fairness

Answer explanation

Ethical guidelines prioritise the welfare of participants by ensuring safety, informed consent, and fairness.

Which of the following is an ethical consideration related to animal research?

• Cross-cultural reliability

• Sampling biases

• Predictive validity

• Alternative methods to minimise harm

Answer explanation

Ethical research involving animals should minimise harm and consider alternative methods to achieve the same results.