Understanding Psychological Science

Research methods from the perspective of the consumer are taught in this text. It contains many examples of how the media presents scientific research to the public by including quotations directly from popular magazines, television talk shows and news broadcasts. Through the analysis of real-life examples, students can learn how to critically evaluate scientific information and gain an understanding of how and why certain findings are typically misinterpreted. Explaining statistics within the context of specific research designs, this text focuses on both effect, size and significance, while presenting values taken from actual studies for concrete application. Written mainly for an intermediate level, the text is also suitable for students at all levels.