Understanding Psychology (10th Ed)

scientifi c method
is the approach used by psychologists to systematically 
acquire knowledge and understanding about behavior and other phenomena of interest. 
As illustrated in Figure 1, it consists of four main steps: (1) identifying questions of 
interest, (2) formulating an explanation, (3) carrying out research designed to support 
or refute the explanation, and (4) communicating the fi ndings. 
scientifi c method
The approach 
through which psychologists system-
atically acquire knowledge and 
understanding about behavior and 
other phenomena of interest.
Key Concepts
What is the scientifi c method?
What role do theories and 
hypotheses play in psycho-
logical research?
M O D U L E 4
The Scientifi c Method
Study Alert
Use Figure 1 to remember the 
four steps of the scientifi c 
method (identifying 
questions, formulating an 
explanation, carrying out 
research, and communicating the 
fi ndings).
FIGURE 1 
The scientifi c method, which encompasses the process of identifying, asking, and 
answering questions, is used by psychologists, and by researchers from every other scientifi c 
discipline, to come to an understanding about the world. What do you think are the advantages 
of this method?
Communicate the findings
Carry out research
Devise an operational definition
of the hypothesis
Select a research method
Collect the data
Analyze the data
Formulate an explanation
Specify a theory
Develop a hypothesis
Identify questions of interest
stemming from
Behavior and phenomenon
requiring explanation
Prior research findings
Curiosity, creativity, insight
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