Natural and Quasi

• What is the main focus of the experimental method in research methods?

  Comparing at least two conditions to see if a variable has an effect on an outcome.
• What is the main difference between an experiment and a quasi-experiment?

  An experiment involves random assignment of participants, while a quasi-experiment does not.
• What is the aim of an experiment in psychology?

  To establish a cause-and-effect relationship between an independent and dependent variable.
• What is a characteristic of a quasi-experiment?

  The independent variable is a characteristic of the participants and not under the researcher's control.
• What are the types of experiments mentioned in the study material?

  • Laboratory experiments
  • Field experiments
  • Natural experiments
  • Quasi-experiments
• What defines a natural experiment?

  A natural experiment takes advantage of a naturally occurring independent variable.
• Give an example of a natural experiment.

  Charlton (2000) studied the arrival of TV on St Helena and its effect on behavior.
• What is a key feature of a quasi-experiment?

  The independent variable is based on an existing difference between people.
• In a study comparing old and young people's eyewitness testimony, what would the independent variable be?

  Age
• What is the significance of the Cherokee casino study by Jane Costello?

  It provided a unique opportunity to observe the effect of ending poverty on children's mental health.
• What were the findings of Costello's study regarding children's mental health?

  Conduct and oppositional disorders improved, but anxiety and depression did not.
• What defines a quasi-experiment in Kilham & Mann's study?

  It tested gender differences in obedience based on the innate characteristic of gender.
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of natural and quasi experiments?

  Strengths:

  • High ecological validity
  • Study sensitive issues
  • Natural behavior

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Difficult to replicate
  • Less control over variables
  • Confounding variables may affect results
• Why is it difficult to establish cause and effect in natural experiments?

  Because the independent variable is not being directly manipulated by the researcher.