Research Methods
📊 2.2 Research Methods (अनुसंधान पद्धतियाँ)
🧠 Introduction
Psychological research is the scientific and systematic investigation of human behaviour and mental processes. It helps in formulating theories, improving interventions, and guiding policy decisions.
This topic covers the entire research process, from identifying a problem to writing the final report — essential for both theoretical understanding and practical application.
🧱 I. Major Steps in Psychological Research
1. Problem Statement
- Define what is being studied and why it matters.
- Should be specific, researchable, and socially relevant.
Example:
“Does excessive smartphone use reduce attention span in teenagers?”
2. Hypothesis Formulation
- A testable prediction derived from theory or observation.
🧪 Types of Hypotheses:
- Null Hypothesis (H₀): No effect exists
- Alternative Hypothesis (H₁): A significant effect exists
Example:
H₀: Smartphone use has no effect on attention.
H₁: Smartphone use reduces attention span.
3. Research Design
- Blueprint for how the study will be conducted.
Types:
- Experimental: Random assignment, cause-effect inference
- Ex-post facto: After-the-fact analysis where manipulation isn’t possible
- Quasi-experimental: Natural groups, but some control used
Example:
Studying whether yoga improves memory retention in high school students by creating two groups (yoga and control).
4. Sampling
- Selection of individuals from the population to represent the whole.
🧪 Sampling Techniques:
- Random sampling – everyone has equal chance
- Stratified sampling – subgroups represented proportionally
- Purposive sampling – specific traits (e.g., only ADHD children)
Example:
Selecting 100 UPSC aspirants from Delhi coaching centres using stratified sampling based on gender and stream.
5. Tools of Data Collection
| Tool | Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Interview | Deep understanding | In-depth interview with drug addicts |
| Observation | Behavioural patterns | Observing child aggression at playground |
| Questionnaire | Mass response | Survey on mental health awareness |
| Case Study | Unique cases | Study of a child with exceptional memory |
6. Data Analysis and Interpretation
Once data is collected, it is analyzed statistically.
📊 Common Techniques:
- t-test: Difference between two groups
- Two-way ANOVA: Multiple group comparisons
- Correlation (r): Relationship strength and direction
- Regression: Predictive modelling
- Factor analysis: Identify underlying traits
- Item Response Theory (IRT): Assess test item difficulty and discrimination
Example:
A study comparing anxiety levels in male vs female students uses independent t-test.
A regression model might predict academic performance from study hours and motivation level.
7. Report Writing
- Final documentation of the research process, findings, and conclusions.
📄 Typical Structure:
- Abstract
- Introduction (problem, hypothesis)
- Method (sample, design, tools)
- Results (statistical output)
- Discussion (interpretation, limitations)
- References
Example:
A study on the effect of yoga on anxiety is published in the Indian Journal of Clinical Psychology.
🔍 II. Fundamental vs Applied Research
| Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Fundamental Research | Focuses on theory building | Exploring how memory works in the brain |
| Applied Research | Solves real-world problems | Designing an anger management program for teens |
🧪 III. Research Designs (Special Mention)
Ex-Post Facto Design
- The IV (independent variable) is not manipulated but observed after the fact.
- Causality is inferred from statistical associations.
Example:
Studying whether childhood trauma predicts adult anxiety (can’t ethically manipulate trauma).
Experimental Design
- Classic method using random assignment and controlled variables.
Example:
Testing whether meditation improves memory by assigning participants randomly to meditation and non-meditation groups.
📊 IV. Use of Statistical Techniques
1. t-test
- Compares means of two groups
- Example: Comparing IQ of urban vs rural students
2. Two-way ANOVA
- Analyzes interaction between two IVs on one DV
- Example: Impact of gender and teaching style on exam performance
3. Correlation
- Measures relationship between two variables
- Example: Link between screen time and sleep quality (r = -0.60)
4. Regression
- Predicts outcome variable
- Example: Predicting UPSC prelims score based on study hours and sleep
5. Factor Analysis
- Identifies clusters of variables
- Example: Personality traits grouped into Big Five using factor analysis
6. Item Response Theory (IRT)
- Advanced tool to evaluate test items
- Used in standardized exams like UGC NET, GRE
🧠 Real-Life Indian Applications
| Problem | Research Method Used | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Suicide in Kota | Case Study + Regression | Sleep and parental pressure as predictors |
| Child Marriage in Bihar | Survey + FGDs | Developed emotional education module |
| Air Pollution & Cognition | Experimental + Regression | Found decreased attention during high AQI days |
| Post-pandemic Mental Health | Online questionnaires | Spiked anxiety levels in 18–30 age group |
✅ Conclusion
Psychological research is a step-by-step scientific journey that transforms abstract ideas into practical solutions. From theory to therapy, and from classrooms to courts, the research methods in psychology ensure that human behaviour is studied objectively, ethically, and meaningfully.
It’s not just about publishing papers — it’s about solving real-world problems, improving mental health systems, and shaping national policies.
