Scientific method - Essay Example

SCIENTIFIC METHOD Scientific Method Scientific method refers to a set of procedures and principles that researchers’ use to develop queries, collect valuable data and make conclusions. Since psychological studies are aimed at describing, explaining, predicting and to the extent of influencing mental behaviors or processes; psychologists utilize scientific methods to conduct psychological research (Feldman & Dinardo, 2012). While conducting research work, researchers not only seek to describe behaviors and explicate why these behaviors occur; they also aim at creating research that can assist in predicting and even changing human behavior.

Psychology, which involves the study of animal and human behavior, is intrinsically scientific; thus, is classified as a behavioral science. Additionally, psychologists, just like other scientists, hold scientific attitude. This implies that every aspect of their research work is cynically examined, and all preconceived notions are purposefully ignored during the research process (Feldman & Dinardo, 2012). For this reasons, scientific method plays a fundamental part in the psychological research process.

This is because it helps in explaining the scientific findings that result from hypothesis testing established from the initial observations. Scientific method is of significance to psychological research since it provides clear formulas for collected data to draw verifiable conclusions. The steps used in the scientific research method include:Identifying a problem- An individual must first choose a study topic in order to conduct a research. Normally, psychologists choose an area of interest that revolves around behavioral issues, and not drug interactions (Feldman & Dinardo, 2012).

For me, my area of interest would be to research on the relationship between reading behaviors and exam anxiety. After choosing my topic, I would conduct a detailed review on the subject. I would look at journals, articles and books that have been written on the topic. This would equip me with valuable information regarding what is already known about the topic and what queries still remain unsolved.Formulating a hypothesis- After conducting a background research, I would formulate a hypothesis.

A hypothesis is an educated guess on the relationship between the variables. It uses specific language to ascertain a predicted outcome in a simple statement. In regard to my chosen topic, my hypothesis can be ‘Effective reading habits decreases exam anxiety’.Testing the hypothesis- The hypothesis is then tested using several research techniques. These techniques include descriptive research, correlational studies and experimental research. For my topic, I would choose descriptive research since it involves the observation and recording of behavior, after which the recorded information is used to draw conclusions.

Analyzing Data- After compiling all the information and the study completed, the data should be examined. Employing the use of statistics and other methods, I will summarize my findings and assess whether they support my hypothesis or not.Drawing a Conclusion- After making a summary of the study results, I will typically record the findings in a scholarly modus or an essay. My final works can be published in academic journals such as the Review of General Psychology or the American Journal of Psychology.

In conclusion, scientific method plays a vital role in psychological research. This is because it ensures research is conducted in a systematic manner and the findings critically analyzed. However, for scientific method to be effective, the steps outline must be strictly followed. ReferencesFeldman, R. & Dinardo, A. (2012). Essentials of Understanding Psychology. New York:Mc-Graw Hill Publishers.