Psychological experimentation is a scientific research method used to investigate the results of altering certain variables in a given situation. It is a field of psychology used to measure and understand behaviour. Psychological experiments are conducted in a variety of forms and used to study a range of human and animal behaviour.
The modern history of psychological experimentation can be traced back to the late 18th century, when a number of leading scientists conducted experiments on the effects of hypnotism and electricity on the human body. In the 19th century, psychologists began studying the effects of language on mental processes, and Wilhelm Wundt established a lab to run psychological experiments. The use of psychological experiments continued to grow in the 20th century as psychologists focused on topics such as memory, thinking, emotion, and behaviour.
Psychological experiments are divided into two main categories: laboratory experiments and field experiments. Laboratory experiments involve the study of behaviour in a controlled environment and often utilize a method known as the experimental method. This method involves two or more groups of participants who are randomly assigned to a control group or an experimental group. The groups then undergo the same treatment or stimulus and the results are measured. Field experiments involve the study of behaviour in its natural environment, usually in public spaces or natural environments.
In order to ensure the ethical integrity of psychological experiments, there are guidelines set by the American Psychological Association, known as the Ethical Principles of Psychological Research. The most important of these principles involve protecting the participants from any potential harm, and providing them with appropriate information about the experiment. In addition, the experiment should be conducted in a way that respects the participants’ rights to privacy, and must have an Institutional Review Board approve it before the experiment can begin.
In addition to covering the basics of psychological experimentation, there are also a number of specific techniques and approaches used to accomplish different goals. For example, researchers may use surveys, interviews, and lab experiments to determine behavior changes. Other techniques, such as neuroimaging, genetic testing, and psychological testing, give researchers insight into the underlying processes of behavior.
Psychological experimentation is a powerful tool for uncovering the relationships between events and behaviors, and can inform scientific and practical aspects of psychology. It has helped us understand topics such as memory, learning, decision-making, motivation, and emotion. In addition, it has been used to develop treatments and therapies for mental health issues. Although there are ethical considerations when conducting psychological experiments, they can still be a powerful method of increasing our understanding of the human psyche.
