phenomena
systematic observations; a general result that has been observed reliably in systematic empirical research. An established answer to a research question
theories
explanations or interpretations of those observations
replication
conducting a study again—either exactly as it was originally conducted or with modications—to be sure that it produces the same results
theory
a coherent explanation or interpretation of one or more phenomena; they go beyond the phenomena they explain by including variables, structures, processes, functions, or organizing principles that have not been observed directly
Simply an explanation or interpretations of a set of phenomena.
Big picture framework, master blueprint
Perspective
a broad approach—more general than a theorgy—to explaining and interpreting phenomena
Like a lens, a filter to look at a behavior through
Model
a precise explaination or interpretation of a specific phenomenon—often expressed in terms of equations, computer programs or biological structures and processes
A simplified map
Hypothesis
an explanation that relies on just a few key concepts—although this term more commonly refers to a prediction about a new phenomenon based on a theory
A testable guess, let’s see if this holds water
What are 3 additional purposes of theories
1) Organization
2) Prediction
3) Generation of New Research
Parsimony
Keep it simple; a theory should include only as many concepts as are necessary to explain or interpret the phenomena of interest
What are 3 importnat dimensions of theories?
1) Formality
2) Scope
3) Theoretical Approach
Formality
The extent to which the components of the theory and the relationships among them are specified clearly and in detail
Scope
The # and diversity of pheomena they explain or interpret
Theoretical approach
the set of ideas or toolbox that a psychologist uses to explain why people behavior they way they do
Functional theories
Explain psychological phenomena in terms of their function or purpose; ie. evolutionary psychology
Mechanistic theories
focus on specific variables, structures and processes and how they interact to produce the phenomena
Stage theories
a series of stages that people pass through as they develop or adapt to their environment; ie. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs
Typologies
categorizing people or behaviors into distinct types; ie. Type A personality
Hypotheticodeductive Method
the primary way that scientific researches use theories; the fancy term for the scientific method; guess, test and refine to get closer to the truth
Construction or Choosing a Theory Must…
provide a coherent explantation or interpretation of the phenomena of interest and have some advantage over existing theories
If-then relationship between theories and hypothesis
If ______ theory is correct, then _________ hypothesis should happen
