Question

Why is accuracy and detail so important in psychological research? Can you think of an example (fact or fiction) where inaccuracy can be problematic?

Answer 1

Psychological research refers to research that psychologists conduct to research and analyse the experiences and behaviours of individuals or groups. Their research can have educational, occupational, and clinical applications.

Importance of accuracy and detail in psychological research:
As psychological research has a wide range of applications, its accuracy is important. Psychologists focus their attention on understanding behaviour, as well as the cognitive and physiological processes that underlie the behaviour. In contrast to other methods that people use to understand the behaviour of others, the hallmark of this research is that it uses evidences to support a claim. It is grounded in objective, tangible evidence that can be observed time and time again, regardless of who is observing. The reason for behaviour is more difficult to determine.
Research is what makes the difference between facts and opinions. Facts are observable realities, and opinions are personal judgements, conclusions or attitudes that may or may not be accurate. So the samples of the research should be informed that the information provided by them have significant consequences. This facilitates improved accuracy in the researches.
Psychological research relies on both inductive and deductive reasoning. In deductive reasoning, ideas are tested against the empirical world; whereas in inductive reasoning, empirical observations lead to new ideas. These processes are inseparable. These detailing methodologies constitute a better research.

For example, government plans to implement a new program for the benefit of women affected with ovarian cancer. For this, they need to conduct a psychological research to understand the problems and needs of the afflicted. In the initial phase, they are planning to conduct the research in 3 provinces. If the sample size is different among the provinces, the researcher should be careful enough while choosing the sample, so that each and everyone get equal chances of being chosen. If the researcher uses his own intuitions and ignore a particular sector, and try to generalize comparing the other provinces, might end up in a totally biased report; thereby affecting the total accuracy of the research. And if the government implements the plan based on this erroneous research, the needy won’t get the benefits out of it.