Research Methods for the Behavioral Sciences takes a problem-focused approach to introducing research methods in a way that fully integrates the decision tree-from choosing a research design to selecting an appropriate statistic for analysis. With a conversational, student-friendly writing style, author Gregory J. Privitera shows how methods and statistics work together and enable the testing of hypotheses through use of the scientific method. The text's outstanding pedagogy includes step-by-step instructions for SPSS, empowering students to approach their study and application of research methods with confidence.

SECTION I: SCIENTIFIC INQUIRYChapter 1-Introduction to Scientific ThinkingChapter 2-Generating Testable IdeasChapter 3-Research EthicsSECTION II: DEFINING AND MEASURING VARIABLES, SELECTING SAMPLES, AND CHOOSING AN APPROPRIATE RESEARCH DESIGNChapter 4- Identifying Scientific VariablesChapter 5-Sampling from PopulationsChapter 6-Choosing a Research DesignSECTION III: NONEXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH DESIGNSChapter 7-Naturalistic, Qualitative, and Existing Data Research DesignsChapter 8-Survey and Correlational Research DesignsSECTION IV: QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL AND EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH DESIGNSChapter 9-Quasi-Experimental and Single Case Experimental DesignsChapter 10-Between-Subjects Experimental DesignsChapter 11-Within-Subjects Experimental DesignsChapter 12-Factorial Experimental DesignsSECTION V: ANALYZING, INTERPRETING, AND COMMUNICATING RESEARCH DATAChapter 13-Analysis and Interpretation: Exposition of DataChapter 14-Analysis and Interpretation: Making Decisions About DataChapter 15-Communicating Research: Preparing Manuscripts, Posters, and Talks