Hypotheses

Question 1

Hypotheses

Answer 1

Hypotheses are statements made by researchers, predicting an expected outcome or relationship between variables.
A null hypothesis (H0) predicts no relationship or difference between variables.

Question 2

Alternative Hypothesis

Answer 2

An alternative hypothesis predicts a relationship or difference between variables.
It could be directional or non-directional.

Question 3

Directional Hypotheses

Answer 3

The prediction is very specific.
It states the direction of the effect (i.e., ‘greater than’, ‘less than’).

Question 4

Non-Directional Hypotheses

Answer 4

It simply states that there is a difference or a relationship but does not predict the direction of this effect.

Question 5

Formulation of Hypotheses in Research

Answer 5

Hypotheses are formulated after thorough review of related literature and understanding of the research question.
The alternative hypothesis is what the researcher really thinks is the case and is trying to prove.
The null hypothesis is the “default” view - that there is no effect or difference

Question 6

Testability of Hypotheses

Answer 6

A hypothesis must be testable and measurable. It should clearly define the variables and the expected relationship or difference between them.
Operationalising variables is a key step to make them measurable.

Question 7

Role of Hypotheses in Psychological Research

Answer 7

Hypotheses guide the direction of the study, help design experiments, and determine analytical methods.
They are critical for replicability of the study. Other researchers must be able to test the same hypotheses under the same conditions.
Hypotheses are provisional. They can be supported or refuted based on the results, leading to further hypotheses and research.