Essay

Describe the specific method MacDonald and Martineau used to manipulate the moods of their participants, and explain the two main conclusions they drew from the distinct difference in scores between the two experimental groups. Please provide a concise analytical response.

Question: Describe the specific method MacDonald and Martineau used to manipulate the moods of their participants, and explain the two main conclusions they drew from the distinct difference in scores between the two experimental groups. Please provide a concise analytical response.

Sample answer: MacDonald and Martineau manipulated participants' moods by instructing them to think either positive or negative thoughts. When the subsequent mood measure showed a distinct difference between the two groups, the researchers drew two conclusions: first, that their experimental mood manipulation was successful, and second, that their mood measure possessed criterion validity.

Key points:

  • Participants were instructed to think either positive or negative thoughts.
  • The distinct difference in scores showed that the mood manipulation worked.
  • The results demonstrated that the mood measure possessed criterion validity.

Rubric: The student must correctly recall the method of manipulation (instructing participants to think positive or negative thoughts) and state the two major conclusions drawn from the results (the manipulation worked and the measure had criterion validity).

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Updated 2026-05-27

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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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