Class 11 Psychology - ANDHRA-PRADESH
Methods of Enquiry in Psychology
Chapter 2 of the Andhra Pradesh (BSEAP) Class 11 Psychology syllabus, 'Methods of Enquiry in Psychology', explores how psychologists scientifically study human behavior and mental processes. It introduces the goals of psychological enquiry—description, prediction, explanation, and control—and outlines major research methods like observation, experimental method, correlational research, survey research, psychological testing, and case studies. Understanding these methods is crucial for board exams as it forms the foundational framework for scientific reasoning in psychology, frequently tested through conceptual questions, methodological comparisons, and practical application scenarios.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Experimental Method
A research method where the investigator manipulates an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable under controlled conditions.
Observation
A method involving systematic, organized, and objective listening and recording of behavior as it occurs naturally or in a laboratory setting without interference.
Correlational Research
A non-experimental method used to measure the relationship between two or more variables, ranging from positive to negative correlation.
Case Study
An in-depth, detailed study of an individual, small group, or situation using multiple sources of information to understand rare or unique psychological phenomena.
Psychological Testing
The use of standardized, objective instruments to measure psychological attributes like intelligence, aptitude, and personality.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Andhra Pradesh (BSEAP) Class 11 Psychology board examinations, this chapter typically carries around 8 to 12 marks. Questions commonly include Very Short Answer Questions (VSAQs) defining key terms like observation or survey, Short Answer Questions (SAQs) explaining specific methods or comparing experimental and non-experimental approaches, and occasional Essay/Long Answer Questions (LAQs) detailing steps in conducting scientific research.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an independent variable and a dependent variable?
The independent variable is the cause factor that the researcher manipulates, while the dependent variable is the effect factor that is measured to see how it responds to the independent variable.
Why is observation considered scientific in psychology?
Unlike casual everyday watching, psychological observation is planned systematically, recorded objectively, and subjected to checks on reliability and validity to avoid personal biases.
Does correlation mean causation?
No, a strong correlation between two variables only indicates that they are related, not that one causes the other. An unseen third variable might be influencing both.
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