Control of variables

• What is an extraneous variable?

  An extraneous variable is an additional, unwanted variable that could affect the outcome of an experiment (e.g., hours of sleep, hobbies, food habits).
• What is a confounding variable?

  A confounding variable changes systematically with the independent variable and affects the dependent variable (e.g., personality, gender, thoughts, feelings, age).
• What are demand characteristics?

  Demand characteristics are clues in a research situation that help participants figure out the aim of the study, potentially altering their behaviour (e.g., guessing the hypothesis).
• What is the key principle of standardisation in psychological research?

  All participants should be subject to the same environment, information, and experience to ensure consistency and fairness.
• Why are ethical guidelines important in psychological research?

  Ethical guidelines are necessary to clarify the conditions under which psychological research is acceptable, ensuring the protection and well-being of participants.
• What are the main ethical issues in research?

  (CAN, DO, CAN'T, DO, WITH, PARTICIPANTS)

  • Consent
  • Deception
  • Confidentiality
  • Debriefing
  • Right to withdraw
  • Protection of participants
• What is informed consent?

  Informed consent means participants are fully debriefed and agree to participate after understanding the study's purpose. For children under 16, parental consent is required.
• What is deception in research?

  Deception involves intentionally misleading participants about the study's purpose. It should be avoided unless there is strong justification and ethical approval.
• What is confidentiality in research?

  Confidentiality ensures that participants' identities and data remain private, adhering to laws like the Data Protection Act.
• What is debriefing?


  Debriefing involves informing participants of the study's purpose, discussing their experience, and addressing any negative effects before they leave the research setting.
• What is the right to withdraw?

  The right to withdraw allows participants to leave the study at any time, even retrospectively after the experiment.
• What is protection of participants?

  Protection of participants ensures they are safeguarded from physical or mental harm, and researchers should inquire about any factors that may pose risks, e.g., medical conditions.