1. Introduction to Research Methods PSY 101

2. How to read a journal reference Courtney, K.E. & Polich, J. (2009). Binge drinking in young adults: Data, definitions, and determinants. Psychological Bulletin, 135(1), 142-156. Author(s) Year published Published article title Journal containing published article Journal volume & issue Article page numbers

3. The Scientific Method Step 1: Formulate a specific question and testable hypothesis Variables & Operational definitions. How will your variables be operationally defined? Example: How might gender & age contribute to gender role norms? It is hypothesized that older individuals will report more traditional gender role norms than younger individuals, and that females will report less traditional gender role norms than males.

4. The Scientific Method Step 2: Study the design & collect the data Descriptive methods (no manipulation) Naturalistic Observation Case Study Surveys (representative samples & generalizability? random selection) Correlational Studies (correlation coefficient & positive vs. negative correlations) Experimental methods (manipulation) IV & DV Extraneous (confounding) variables Control vs. comparison groups Random Assignment Double blind & demand characteristics

5. The Scientific Method Step 3: Analyze the data and draw conclusions SPSS & SAS Step 4: Report the findings Be sure to note study limitations, esp. with survey studies (e.g. social desirability bias) Also provide recommendations for future research

6. Ethics in Psychological Research  Informed consent & voluntary participation  Confidentiality & anonymity  Information about the study and debriefing Institutional Review Boards (IRB)