Research Methods

Catalog description

This course is designed to increase familiarity with the general principles of psychological research design as they pertain to research conducted with clinical samples or on clinically relevant topics. Over the term, we will review issues related to internal and external validity, the generalizability of research, meta-analysis, and the clinical significance and clinical application of research results. Throughout the course, the emphasis will be on the application of sound methodological principles to concrete research problems. Each class will focus on a specific methodological design or domain, and the readings will provide a general background on the topic. For most classes, at least one of the readings will provide an empirical example of the design or domain. Thoughtful consideration of the impact of human diversity on psychological phenomena is necessary in the planning and interpretation of research. Accordingly, many of the readings include some aspects of human diversity (e.g., age, gender, ethnicity, and sexual orientation). We will also discuss research ethics and sensitivity to cultural diversity issues intermittently throughout the semester. Permission from instructor needed for registration.