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A psychology researcher wants to test the theory that high social support buffers against physiological stress. Apply the hypothetico-deductive method by writing a specific, testable hypothesis that could be evaluated in an empirical study.
Question: A psychology researcher wants to test the theory that high social support buffers against physiological stress. Apply the hypothetico-deductive method by writing a specific, testable hypothesis that could be evaluated in an empirical study.
Sample answer: Participants who report having high levels of social support will show lower heart rate increases during a public speaking task compared to participants who report low social support. This specific prediction is derived from the broader theory that social support buffers against physiological stress.
Key points:
- Formulate a specific prediction for a scientific study's outcome.
- Derive the hypothesis directly from the theory of social support buffering stress.
- Ensure the hypothesis is empirically testable with measurable variables.
Rubric: To receive full credit, the answer must: 1. Formulate a specific prediction regarding the outcome of a study. 2. Derive this prediction logically from the theory that social support buffers physiological stress. 3. Ensure the prediction is empirically testable with clear variables.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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A psychology researcher wants to test the theory that high social support buffers against physiological stress. Apply the hypothetico-deductive method by writing a specific, testable hypothesis that could be evaluated in an empirical study.