Class 11 Psychology - CBSE
Methods of Enquiry in Psychology
Chapter 2 of CBSE Class 11 Psychology, 'Methods of Enquiry in Psychology', introduces students to how psychologists scientifically study human behavior and mental processes. It covers the goals of psychological enquiry, steps in scientific research, and major methods like observation, experimental, correlational, survey, psychological testing, and case studies. You will also learn about ethical issues in research. This chapter forms the foundation of psychological research methodology and is crucial for scoring high in board exams, frequently featuring direct questions on research methods, experimental designs, and ethical considerations.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Goals of Psychological Enquiry
The primary objectives of research in psychology are description, prediction, explanation, and control of behavior, along with the application of knowledge to solve practical problems.
Experimental Method
A method where a researcher manipulates an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable under controlled conditions, establishing cause-and-effect relationships.
Correlational Research
A non-experimental method used to measure the strength and direction of the relationship between two or more variables, ranging from -1.0 to +1.0.
Observation Method
A technique involving systematic and objective viewing and recording of behavior as it naturally occurs, which can be participant or non-participant, naturalistic or controlled.
Case Study
An in-depth, detailed investigation of an individual, small group, or situation using multiple sources of information to understand rare or unique psychological phenomena.
Ethical Guidelines
Moral principles enforced in research to protect participants from harm, ensuring voluntary participation, informed consent, confidentiality, and debriefing.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the CBSE Class 11 Psychology theory paper, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Questions often include 1-mark objective questions, 2-mark definitions (like difference between IV and DV), 4-mark short answers (explaining observation or survey methods), and occasionally a case-based or application-based 6-mark question on experimental design or ethical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an Independent Variable and a Dependent Variable?
An independent variable is manipulated by the researcher to see its effect, while the dependent variable is the measured outcome that depends on the independent variable.
Why is the experimental method considered better than observation?
The experimental method allows researchers to establish cause-and-effect relationships by controlling extraneous variables, whereas observation only describes behavior without explaining the exact cause.
What is meant by debriefing in psychological research?
Debriefing is the process of explaining the true purpose and details of the study to participants after the experiment is over, especially if any deception was used, to ensure they leave without any distress.
Learn Methods of Enquiry in Psychology with Your AI Tutor
10 different ways to study this chapter. Free for 3 chapters per day.
Lecture
Key Points
Interactive
Quiz
Flashcards