Theoretical Models and Research Methods - Assignment Example

Theoretical Models and Research Methods Globally, psychologists have been carrying out researches by use of different theoretical models. This essay discusses various theoretical models and research methods used in the field of psychology. Theoretical Models and Research MethodsIntroduction Psychologists use different theoretical models according to the psychological issue being handled at a specific time when carrying out a research. The field of Psychology tackles both applied and academic based studies of human behavior and mind.

In addition, there are various research methods available for researchers in the field of psychology. Nevertheless, researchers are guided by research questions in order to achieve desired results for research being undertaken (Groves, et al. 1993).Theoretical models and various schools of thought help in understanding psychology better with different researches being carried out day after day all over the world. Researchers employ various scientific techniques and research designs, including descriptive, correlational and experimental (Groves, et al. 1993). Correlational research design in this case describes how psychologists would conduct a correlational study to identify variety of behaviors that likely are associated with the Overeating behavior by 16-year-olds.

Through this design, one is able to test, explain and predict how overeating behavior as well as understanding the effects an individual bearing this behavior posses to the rest in the society. It is argued that human behavioral development is shaped by range of psychological factors including but not limited to biological, familial and cultural. The theoretical model on behaviorism states that human behaviors are learnt through the interaction with the immediate environment and its occupants.

For instance, overeating behavior by 16 year old develops as the child also grows from one stage to another as well as other behavioral traits inhibited by other personalities in the environment. Personality characteristics are significant in the growth and development of an individual. Unlike behavioral theories in humans, social cultural theory provides tangible evidence for the different human behavioral traits adopts within their social settings and connectivity with cultural practices. Psychologists argue that one’s social cultural backgrounds play a major role in moulds through learning and experience.

However, individuals keep changing their social settings through their lives while coming into contact with different cultures (Groves, et al. 1993). Correlational research design strengths, as used in psychology are that it is much easier to do than experimental research where more works is done. Moreover, it refers to the degree of relationship between two or more variables and does not allow explanation on cause and effects.On the other side, its weaknesses are based on the fact that what a correlation shows is presence or absence of a relationship.

Also, two variables can seem correlated but when other variable are incorporated, the correlation disappears (Groves, et al. 1993). Conclusion It is true that human growth and development in different human beings is a result of many factors both genetic and others caused by the environment. Personality traits in human life are more complex and therefore it is through theoretical models that human beings have tried to explain this phenomenon. ReferenceGroves, et al. (1993). Silent victims: Children who witness violence.

Journal of the American Medical Association 269: 262-264.