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A clinical psychologist wants to investigate whether a new cognitive-behavioral therapy program reduces the frequency of panic attacks in patients. Apply the text's definition of an empirical question to explain whether this inquiry qualifies as an empirical question and how it would be tested.
Question: A clinical psychologist wants to investigate whether a new cognitive-behavioral therapy program reduces the frequency of panic attacks in patients. Apply the text's definition of an empirical question to explain whether this inquiry qualifies as an empirical question and how it would be tested.
Sample answer: Yes, this inquiry qualifies as an empirical question because it can be resolved through active observation. A researcher can test this by collecting objective data, specifically by systematically observing and counting the number of panic attacks patients experience before and after participating in the therapy program.
Key points:
- The inquiry is an empirical question because it can be resolved through active observation.
- It requires collecting objective data on panic attack frequency.
- The effects of the therapy program are systematically testable.
Rubric: Full credit (2 points) is awarded if the student: (1) correctly identifies the inquiry as an empirical question and explains that it fits the definition because it can be resolved through active observation (1 point); and (2) describes how it can be tested by collecting objective data, such as counting the frequency of panic attacks (1 point).
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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A clinical psychologist wants to investigate whether a new cognitive-behavioral therapy program reduces the frequency of panic attacks in patients. Apply the text's definition of an empirical question to explain whether this inquiry qualifies as an empirical question and how it would be tested.