Reliability

• What is the main focus of psychology in relation to measurement?

  Measuring behavior consistently
• Why is reliability important in psychological measurements?

  It ensures consistent results across studies
• What are some examples of measurement tools used by psychologists?

  Questionnaires, interviews, observations
• What is external reliability in psychological research?

  Consistency of results across different times
• What is internal reliability in psychological measures?

  Consistency among different parts of a measure
• What method is used to assess internal reliability?

  Split-half method
• How does the split-half method work?

  It splits a measure into two parts for comparison
• What does a strong correlation in the split-half method indicate?

  High internal reliability of the measure
• What is the test-retest method used for?

  Assessing external reliability
• What does a strong correlation in the test-retest method indicate?

  High external reliability of the measure
• What is inter-observer reliability?

  Consistency between different observers' results
• How is inter-observer reliability assessed?

  By comparing results from different observers
• What statistical tests are used to measure correlations?

  Pearson's r or Spearman's rho
• What correlation value indicates a reliable measure?

  0.8 or stronger
• What can improve reliability in observational studies?

  Training observers and refining behavioral categories
• How can interviews be structured to improve reliability?

  By carefully phrasing questions to avoid confusion
• What type of questions can improve reliability in questionnaires?

  Closed questions to reduce confusion
• What should researchers do if a questionnaire measures an established factor?

  Use the established test instead of creating a new one
• How should experiments be designed to ensure reliability?

  Use a clear standardized procedure for all participants
• What should researchers keep constant in experiments to improve reliability?

  Environmental conditions during the study
• What are the methods to assess reliability in psychological research?

  • Split-half method for internal reliability
  • Test-retest method for external reliability
  • Inter-observer reliability for observational studies
• How can researchers improve reliability in their studies?

  • Train observers and refine categories
  • Structure interviews with clear questions
  • Use established tests for questionnaires
  • Standardize procedures in experiments
• What are the differences between internal and external reliability?

  • Internal reliability: Consistency within a measure
  • External reliability: Consistency across different times or studies
• What is the significance of a strong correlation of 0.8 or stronger?

  Indicates a reliable measure in psychological research