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NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Psychology - Methods of Enquiry in Psychology

Q1: What are the goals of scientific enquiry?
Ans: The goals of scientific enquiry are as follows:

  • Description - It is very important in a scientific enquiry to describe the behaviour or a phenomenon accurately in order to be able to deal with it.
  • Prediction - Scientific enquiry aims at the understanding of a particular behaviour in relationship to other behaviours or events. It tries to predict their occurrences under certain conditions with a margin of error.
  • Explanation - Scientific enquiry is conducted to know the causal factors or determinants of behaviour and the conditions where the behaviour does not occur.
  • Control - Being able to explain behaviour also leads to the control in behaviour by making changes in its antecedent conditions. The control refers to making a particular behaviour happen, reduce it and enhance it.
  • Application - Application of a particular behaviour aims at bringing about positive changes in the lives of people by solving their problems in various settings.

Q2: Describe the various steps involved in conducting a scientific enquiry.
Ans: The various steps involved in conducting a scientific enquiry can be described as follows:

  • Conceptualisation of problem - It is important in a scientific enquiry to narrow down the focus and understand the specific problem. It is done by reviewing past research, personal experience and observations. This is further followed by preparing a hypothesis or a tentative solution of the problem.
  • Data collection - The second step involves the preparation of a blueprint of the entire study. It consists of four aspects namely, identifying the participants in the study, methods of data collection, tools to be used in research and procedure for data collection.
  • Drawing conclusions - The data are analysed through statistical procedures and represented graphically in the form of pie-chart, bardiagram, etc. It helps to verify the hypothesis and draw conclusions by putting them into an appropriate context.
  • Revising research conclusions - The existing hypothesis is finally confirmed on the basis of revision of data else, a new hypothesis is stated and tested by new data. The research may also be revised by other researchers, hence making it a continuous process.

Q3: Explain the nature of psychological data.
Ans: The nature of psychological data can be explained through the following points:

  1. The psychological data are not independent entities: The physical or social context, the persons involved and the time of the behaviour affects the data. For instance, an individual behaves differently in a group than being alone.
  2. The quality and nature of data is affected by the method of data collection: It is possible that while conducting a personal interview, an individual provides with answers which are different than his/her behaviour as observed by the researcher.
  3. Data are facts without any meaning: This suggests that data do not speak themselves about reality. They only acquire meaning when placed in a context by the researcher.

Q4: How do experimental and control groups differ? Explain with the help of an example.
Ans: Experimental groups differ from control groups as independent variable manipulation occurs in an experimental group whereas it is absent in a control group. For example, in a study conducted by Latane and Darley, there were two experimental groups and one control group. The participants in the study were sent to three types of rooms.
Room 1 in which the participant was alone formed the control group. Room 2 and 3, in which two persons were present with the participant formed experimental groups.
The independent variable, in this study, was the absence or presence of other persons sitting in the room. The remaining factors in the experiment were the same for both kinds of groups. In experimental groups, two persons were present with the real participant while in the control group, participant was alone. Therefore, it can be said that the manipulated variable is absent in control group.

Q5: A researcher is studying the relationship between speed of cycling and the presence of people. Formulate a relevant hypothesis and identify the independent and dependent variables.
Ans: Relationship between the speed of cycling and the presence of people

  • Hypothesis - As the speed of cycling increases people tend to move away fast.
    Field experiment - Two market places
    A boy is asked to ride a bicycle with different speedsin the market.
  • Market 1 - It is observed that when the boy passes through the market street with high speed on the bicycle, people surrounding him will get away quickly in order to protect themselves from getting hit by the cycle.
  • Market 2 - It is observed that when the boy passes through the market street with normal speed on the bicycle people around him will get away normally and slowly to give him the way as compared to the people of market 1.
  • Conclusion - When the speed of the cycle is high people move away from it quickly and when the speed of cycle is normal people will move away slowly in comparison.
  • Revision of research conclusion - The conclusion has matched the hypothesis. Therefore, the hypothesis is correct.
     Independent variable - Speed of cycle
     Dependent variable - Movement of people

Q6: Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of experimental method as a method of enquiry.
Ans: The strengths and weaknesses of experimental method as a method of enquiry are:
 Strengths

  1. It provides a relatively convincing evidence of a cause-effect relationship between two or more variables.
  2. The extraneous variables can be eliminated from the laboratory.
  3. It can minimise the sequence effect with the help of counter-balancing technique.
  4. It eliminates any potential systematic differences between groups by giving random assignment to groups of participants. This is done to  help in framing the conclusion without any assumption.

Weaknesses

  1. The highly controlled laboratory situation only simulates the conditions of the outer world.
  2. The results of the experiments cannot be generally applied to real situations, thus field experiments are required in such situations.
  3. It is not always feasible to study a particular problem experimentally.
  4. It is difficult to know and control all the relevant variables, particularly in field experiments. Many variables cannot be manipulated in laboratory settings.

Q7: Dr. Krishnan is going to observe and record children's play behaviour at a nursery school without attempting to influence or control the behaviour. Which method of research is involved? Explain the process and discuss its merits and demerits.
Ans: Dr. Krishnan will use non-participant observation methodto observe and record children's play behaviour at a nursery school without attempting to influence or control the behaviour. She will sit in the corner of the play school and will observe the behaviour of children, their interaction with other children and teachers, how they play and react to winning and losing. The children will not be aware that they are being observed. Later, she will record her observations in a file. She will analyse and conclude it and then try to match her conclusion with the hypothesis.

Merits of non-participant observation method
The researcher observes the people and their behaviour in a naturalistic situation as it occurs.

Demerits of non-participant observation method
This method is time taking, labour intensive and vulnerable to the researcher's bias. The observations are influenced by the personal values and interpretations of the observer.

Q8: Give two examples of the situations where survey method can be used. What are the limitations of this method?
Ans: The two examples where a survey method can be used are as follows:
(i) To find out the attitudes of people on polio eradication programme.
(ii) To record information about the members of a particular population.

The limitations of survey method are as follows:

  • People may give inaccurate information because of memory lapses or they do not want the researcher to know their real opinions about a particular issue.
  • People sometimes respond in a way they think the researcher wants to hear.

Q9: Differentiate between an interview and a questionnaire.
Ans: The difference between an interview and a questionnaire are:

NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Psychology - Methods of Enquiry in Psychology

Q10: Explain the characteristics of a standardised test.
Ans: The characteristics of standardised test are as follows:

  1. Validity - The test has to be devised to measure what it claims to measure in order to be held as valid and usable.
  2. Reliability - This refers to the consistency of scores obtainedby an individual on the same test on two different occasions. Test-retest indicates temporal stability and split-half indicates internal consistency of the test.
  3. Norms - The test needs to devise norms or the average performance of the group. It helps in comparison and interpretation of an individual's performance in relation to the overall standards of the group.

Q11: Describe the limitations of psychological enquiry.
Ans: The limitations of psychological enquiry are as follows:

  1. Lack of true zero point - Psychological measurements do not have a zero point. The scores that are assigned to individuals in psychological studies are not absolute in nature but have relative value.
  2. Relative nature of psychological tools - Psychological tests need to be developed, modified and adapted according to the context of study. For example, test developed for urban children is not suitable and cannot be applied on tribal children.
  3. Subjective interpretation of qualitative data - The qualitative data are largely subjective and interpretations may vary from one individual to the other.

Q12: What are the ethical guidelines that a psychologist needs to follow while conducting a psychological enquiry?
Ans: The following are the ethical guidelines that a psychologist needs to follow while conducting a psychological enquiry:

  1. Voluntary Participation - The person on whom the study has to be conducted has the choice whether to participate or not in the study.
  2. Informed Consent - The participants should be informed about the nature of the study and its impact upon them before it starts.
  3. Debriefing - The participants have to be provided with information to complete their understanding of the research and enable them to leave the place or laboratory in the same mental and physical state as before the test was conducted.
  4. Sharing the results - Theresearcher has to share the results of the study with the participants to fulfil their expectations. The opinion of participants about the results also provides new insights to the researcher.
  5. Confidentiality of Data Source - The researcher has to make sure that the information given by the participants is kept confidential and not shared with other interested parties.

Hence forth, it is necessary for the researcher to ensure certain ethics and principles in order to respect an individual's privacy and protect him/her from any harm caused by the research.

The document NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Psychology - Methods of Enquiry in Psychology is a part of the Humanities/Arts Course Psychology Class 11.
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FAQs on NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Psychology - Methods of Enquiry in Psychology

1. What is the importance of methods of inquiry in psychology?
Ans. Methods of inquiry in psychology are crucial as they provide a systematic approach to understanding human behavior and mental processes. These methods help psychologists gather data, analyze it, and draw valid conclusions based on empirical evidence. By utilizing various methods such as surveys, experiments, and observations, psychologists can explore different aspects of human psychology, identify patterns, and make reliable predictions. Overall, the methods of inquiry in psychology play a vital role in advancing our understanding of human behavior and promoting evidence-based practices in the field.
2. What are the different methods of inquiry used in psychology?
Ans. Psychology employs various methods of inquiry to investigate human behavior and mental processes. Some commonly used methods include: 1. Surveys and Questionnaires: Researchers collect data by asking individuals a series of predetermined questions, either in person, over the phone, or through online platforms. 2. Experiments: Researchers manipulate variables to examine cause-and-effect relationships. They typically have an experimental group that receives a specific treatment and a control group for comparison. 3. Observational Studies: Researchers systematically observe and record behavior in natural or controlled settings without intervening or manipulating variables. 4. Case Studies: In-depth investigations of a single individual, group, or situation, which provide a detailed analysis of a specific phenomenon. 5. Correlational Studies: Researchers examine the relationship between two or more variables without manipulating them, aiming to identify patterns or associations. These methods offer different strengths and limitations, allowing psychologists to gather comprehensive data and gain a comprehensive understanding of various psychological phenomena.
3. How do psychologists ensure the validity and reliability of their research findings?
Ans. Psychologists employ several strategies to ensure the validity and reliability of their research findings: 1. Random Sampling: Researchers select participants randomly from the target population to ensure representativeness and reduce bias. 2. Standardized Procedures: Researchers use consistent procedures and protocols throughout the study to enhance reliability and minimize confounding variables. 3. Control Groups: In experiments, researchers include control groups that do not receive the experimental treatment. This allows them to compare the effects of the independent variable accurately. 4. Peer Review: Before publication, researchers submit their work to experts in the field for evaluation. Peer review helps identify potential flaws, biases, or methodological issues in the research. 5. Replication: Researchers often replicate studies to test the reliability and generalizability of their findings. Replication involves conducting the same study with different samples or in different settings to ensure consistency. By implementing these strategies, psychologists strive to ensure that their research findings are valid, reliable, and can be generalized to the larger population.
4. How do psychologists determine causation in their research?
Ans. Determining causation is a complex process in psychological research. While correlation does not imply causation, psychologists use several methods to establish causal relationships: 1. Experimental Design: By conducting experiments, researchers can manipulate independent variables and observe their effects on dependent variables. Random assignment to experimental and control groups helps establish causation by minimizing confounding variables. 2. Temporal Precedence: To establish causality, researchers ensure that the cause (independent variable) precedes the effect (dependent variable) in time. This temporal order strengthens the argument for causality. 3. Consistency: When multiple studies consistently find a cause-effect relationship, it strengthens the case for causation. Replication of findings across different samples and settings enhances the credibility of causality. 4. Coherence: The cause-effect relationship should align with existing theories, explanations, or knowledge in the field. If the proposed causal relationship fits well within the existing body of research, it adds support to the argument. 5. Dose-Response Relationship: If there is a dose-response relationship, where a higher dose of the cause leads to a more significant effect, it suggests a causal relationship. By considering these factors and employing rigorous research designs, psychologists can provide evidence for causation in their studies.
5. How do qualitative research methods contribute to the field of psychology?
Ans. Qualitative research methods play a significant role in psychology by providing in-depth insights into complex phenomena that quantitative methods may not capture fully. Here are some ways in which qualitative research contributes to the field: 1. Rich Descriptions: Qualitative methods, such as interviews and focus groups, allow researchers to gather detailed descriptions of participants' experiences, thoughts, and emotions. This depth of information helps in understanding complex psychological processes. 2. Contextual Understanding: Qualitative research focuses on understanding behavior within its natural context. It helps psychologists explore the influence of social, cultural, and environmental factors on individuals' experiences and behaviors. 3. Generating Hypotheses: Qualitative research often serves as an exploratory phase, generating hypotheses or theories that can be further examined using quantitative methods. It provides a foundation for more targeted and hypothesis-driven research. 4. Flexibility and Adaptability: Qualitative methods allow researchers to adapt their approach and questioning based on participants' responses, enabling deeper exploration of emerging themes or unexpected findings. 5. Participant Perspectives: Qualitative research values participants' subjective experiences and perspectives. It emphasizes giving a voice to marginalized or underrepresented populations, providing insights into their unique experiences. By incorporating qualitative methods into their research, psychologists can gain a more holistic understanding of human behavior, foster empathy, and inform the development of effective interventions and treatments.
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