A research psychologist is interested in whether children who play violent videogames display above average violent behavior in real life. Which approach to this question could the psychologist take that would be consistent with the principles of empiricism?
A) Use common sense to determine if there is a connection.
B) Ask children to speculate about the connection.
C) Carefully measure the type and amount of videogame play in children and observe their behavior.
D) Ask parents and teachers to speculate about the connection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This approach involves careful measurement and observation, which are fundamental principles of empiricism. Common sense and speculation are not sufficient for producing empirical evidence, and relying on the opinions of others is also inadequate.

A Research Psychologist Is Interested in Whether Children Who Play