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Diagnose the methodological flaw in this researcher's approach based on the principles of participant selection in field experiments. What is the specific consequence of this flaw?
Case context: A researcher wants to study helping behaviors by dropping a stack of papers on a busy sidewalk. Instead of writing out a plan in advance, the researcher decides to 'go with the flow' and only record the responses of pedestrians who make eye contact and seem friendly.
Question: Diagnose the methodological flaw in this researcher's approach based on the principles of participant selection in field experiments. What is the specific consequence of this flaw?
Sample answer: The researcher failed to establish a well-defined set of selection rules before data collection began. By relying on subjective judgments like eye contact and perceived friendliness in the moment, the researcher is introducing selection bias, which compromises the objectivity of the study.
Key points:
- The researcher did not establish explicit criteria before collecting data.
- Selecting participants based on perceived friendliness is a subjective choice.
- This approach introduces intentional or unintentional selection bias.
- Valid field experiments require clear rules to dictate exactly who is included.
Rubric: Full credit requires identifying the lack of pre-established, objective rules and explaining that this subjective method introduces selection bias.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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Diagnose the methodological flaw in this researcher's approach based on the principles of participant selection in field experiments. What is the specific consequence of this flaw?
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