Question 1

A researcher can generalize the results of her survey to the population of interest if

Accepted Answer

Generalization of survey results can be done only if the sample used in the study is representative of the target population. The response rate, randomized sampling, and volunteer bias are important factors in ensuring the quality of the data collected, but they do not guarantee representativeness.

Question 2

An empirical approach to the study of human sexuality is based on

Accepted Answer

An empirical approach is one that relies on research evidence, rather than intuition or subjective evidence. This means that the study of human sexuality is based on systematic observation, experimentation, and data collection, rather than personal anecdotes or opinions. By using empirical methods, researchers are able to draw more objective conclusions about human sexuality and its various aspects, such as behavior, attitudes, and experiences.

Question 3

A group of researchers uses the Canada Census to determine that 51% of the Canadians are female. In their study of sexual practices in Canada, they make sure that 51% of their subjects are female. The researchers utilized a(n)

Accepted Answer

The researchers utilized a stratified random sample of females by ensuring that 51% of their subjects were female, which mirrors the proportion of females in the general population according to the Canada Census. This approach increases the representativeness of their sample and reduces the potential for bias.

Question 4

When subgroups in a sample are represented in proportion to their membership in the population, the sample is called a(n)

Accepted Answer

A stratified random sample is a sampling technique where the population is divided into subgroups or strata based on specific characteristics (such as age, gender, or ethnicity), and then a random sample is taken from each subgroup in proportion to its size in the population. This ensures that each subgroup is represented in the sample in the same proportion as it exists in the population, which can increase the representativeness and generalizability of the sample.

Question 5

Which of the following would not be considered a psychological variable?

Accepted Answer

The stiffness of a man's erection after consuming alcohol is a physiological response, not a psychological variable.

Question 6

All of the following are examples of demographic variables except

Accepted Answer

Food preferences are not demographic variables; they are more related to personal or cultural choices and behaviors. Demographic variables typically include characteristics like age, religious background, and level of education.

Question 7

As a survey sample, the readers of Glamour magazine are likely to be

Accepted Answer

The readers of Glamour magazine are likely to be biased because they represent a specific demographic and may have certain interests, lifestyles, or beliefs that could affect their responses to survey questions. It is important to consider this potential bias when using this sample for research purposes.

Question 8

To study frequency of intercourse after age 65, the publishers of 65 Plus magazine include a survey in their January issue. Twenty-five percent of the subscribers return the survey. What should the publishers tell their readers about this survey?

Accepted Answer

The results cannot be generalized to the adult population over 65 because the survey only includes responses from subscribers of the magazine, which may not be representative of the entire population over 65. Additionally, the low response rate (25%) suggests potential non-response bias.

Question 9

The first step in the scientific method is

Accepted Answer

The first step in the scientific method is to formulate a research question. This involves identifying a problem or phenomenon that requires investigation and developing a clear and specific question that can be answered through research.

Question 10

A method of objectively measuring sexual arousal in men is to

Accepted Answer

Using a penile strain gauge to measure genital engorgement provides an objective and quantifiable measure of sexual arousal in men, unlike asking for subjective self-reports or tracking the frequency of sexual activity.

Question 11

The Statistics Canada one- and two-year cycle Canadian Community Health Survey is of interest to sexuality researchers because it collects

Accepted Answer

The Canadian Community Health Survey collects recurring data on age of first intercourse and condom use at last intercourse, which is of interest to sexuality researchers.

Question 12

Convenience samples often consist of

Accepted Answer

Convenience samples often consist of white, middle-class, college students because they are easily accessible to researchers, especially in academic settings.

Question 13

Before developing a hypothesis, a researcher should

Accepted Answer

Before developing a hypothesis, a researcher should formulate a research question. A hypothesis is a tentative answer to the research question, and it should be developed based on a thorough review of the literature and the available data. Developing a hypothesis requires careful consideration of the variables involved in the research question and their relationship to each other. Only after the hypothesis has been developed can the researcher conduct the experiment and test the hypothesis. Drawing conclusions comes after the experiment has been conducted and the data has been analyzed.

Question 14

A vaginal photoplethysmograph works by measuring

Accepted Answer

A vaginal photoplethysmograph measures changes in vaginal blood flow by detecting how much light is reflected from the vaginal walls.

Question 15

From a scientific perspective, in order to understand a sexual behaviour, we must first be able to

Accepted Answer

To understand any behavior scientifically, it's essential to first describe it accurately and in detail. This involves noting observations, behaviors, contexts, and any patterns or variations, which forms the basis for further analysis and understanding. Direct observation, visualization, or dissection may not always be possible or ethical, especially in the context of sexual behavior, making description a fundamental first step.

Question 16

Which of the following is not one of the four goals of science?

Accepted Answer

Coerce is not one of the four goals of science. The four goals of science are to explain, describe, predict, and control.

Question 17

A hypothesis is

Accepted Answer

A hypothesis is a precise prediction about behavior that is often derived from theory and is tested through research. It is a statement that can be tested scientifically.

Question 18

A representative sample consists of individuals who accurately represent

Accepted Answer

A representative sample should accurately represent the population of interest, which means that the individuals sampled should match the characteristics of the larger group being studied. This includes factors such as demographics, socioeconomic status, and other relevant variables. A representative sample does not necessarily need to include equal numbers of different age groups or religions, as long as the sample accurately reflects these characteristics within the population of interest.

Question 19

A hypothesis is a(n)

Accepted Answer

A hypothesis is a prediction about behaviour.

Question 20

Critical thinking and the scientific approach are similar in that they

Accepted Answer

Both critical thinking and the scientific approach involve questioning and evaluating information critically, which includes a healthy level of skepticism.

Quiz 2: Research Methods