Experimental Method (OCR A-Level Psychology): Flashcards

Involves manipulation of IV to measure effect on DV

Laboratory, field, natural, quasi

Highly controlled environments

High control over extraneous variables, high internal validity

Artificial environment, low external validity

Replication easier due to high control

Natural, more everyday setting

Higher mundane realism, more natural environment

No consent, invasion of privacy (participants unaware)

Pre-existing variable that would change anyway

Often high - real-life issues & problems studied

Naturally occurring events happen rarely

Existing difference between people (e.g. age)

Often carried out under controlled conditions

Cannot randomly allocate participants