GRE Subject Test: Psychology : Scientific Method

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for GRE Subject Test: Psychology

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Scientific Method

Which of the following terms refers to a supposition based on previous observations that is offered as an explanation for observed phenomenon?

Possible Answers:

Observation

Hypothesis

Conclusion

Assumption

Perception

Correct answer:

Hypothesis

Explanation:

An hypothesis is a conclusion drawn before all of the facts are established and tentatively accepted as a basis for further investigation.

A conclusion is the final operation in the scientific method. It is a decision made about the validity of the hypothesis on the basis of experimental evidence. Observation is the first operation in the scientific method. Observation is the noting of a specific phenomenon leading to the formulation of a hypothesis. Perception is the organization, identification, and interpretation of sensory information. An assumption is an idea that is not subjected to logical study. 

Example Question #2 : Scientific Method

In a study examining the effect of cigarette smoking on men's blood pressure, the subjects' blood pressure is the study's __________.

Possible Answers:

dependent variable

None of these

independent variable

confounding variable

mediating variable

Correct answer:

dependent variable

Explanation:

In an experiment, the dependent variable is changed by changes to the independent variable; because this study examines how differences in smoking habits affect blood pressure, the number/frequency of cigarettes smoked is the study's independent variable and the subjects' blood pressure is the study's dependent variable.

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