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Based on empirical findings regarding internet survey data quality, explain why the colleague's objection is unfounded, and describe how internet users compare to nonusers on psychological markers.
Case context: A developmental psychologist plans to conduct an online survey to examine self-esteem in young adults. During a departmental meeting, a colleague objects to the study design, arguing that the data quality will be poor because online respondents are disproportionately socially isolated and depressed compared to the general population. The researcher needs to address this objection by explaining the empirical evidence regarding online data quality.
Question: Based on empirical findings regarding internet survey data quality, explain why the colleague's objection is unfounded, and describe how internet users compare to nonusers on psychological markers.
Sample answer: The colleague's objection is unfounded because empirical research demonstrates that the assumption about internet samples being maladjusted, socially isolated, or depressed is incorrect. Studies show that internet users do not differ from nonusers on psychological markers of adjustment and depression, meaning the sample is not inherently biased in this regard.
Key points:
- Colleague assumes online samples are uniquely isolated, depressed, or maladjusted.
- Empirical research refutes this assumption.
- Internet users and nonusers do not differ on psychological markers of adjustment or depression.
Rubric: To earn full credit, the response must: 1. Explain that the colleague's assumption of bias is unsupported by empirical evidence. 2. State that internet users and nonusers show no significant differences in psychological adjustment or depression.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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