Which of the following is a method to improve validity in experimental research?

Study for the Psychology Research Methods Exam. Test your knowledge with diverse questions, hints, and explanations. Be prepared and confident!

Employing a single-blind or double-blind design is a significant method for improving the validity of experimental research because it helps reduce biases that could affect the outcomes of the study. In a single-blind design, participants do not know whether they are in the experimental or control group, which helps minimize the influence of their expectations on the study's results. In a double-blind design, neither the participants nor the researchers interacting with them know which group they belong to, further reducing potential biases from both sides.

This control over expectations and biases enhances the internal validity of the experiment, making it more likely that any observed effects can be attributed to the experimental manipulation rather than extraneous influences. By minimizing sources of bias, the researchers can draw stronger conclusions about the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

Other methods like using a larger sample size can increase statistical power and generalizability but do not directly reduce bias. Researching in more complex settings may introduce additional variables that can complicate results and potentially reduce validity. Lastly, the choice between questionnaires and interviews involves trade-offs concerning data depth and reliability, but they do not fundamentally improve the validity of the experimental design itself.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy