This chapter generally deals with the means by which psychologists conduct their research. Several key controversial topics regarding the research process are discussed throughout the section. It begins by covering the reasons for biases in amongst researchers and participants and ways to avoid them. Also important is the attempt made by psychologists to ensure that their experiments emulate real-life circumstances in order to gather data that is as accurate as possible. Finally, the chapter discusses ethical difficulties involved in conducting meaningful experiments.
I think the most interesting aspect of this chapter will be learning about the measures taken by researchers to maintain a real-life feel in their experiments when they deem it is important to observe subjects in a natural setting. Obviously it is difficult to observe someone without their knowledge and similarly it is difficult for someone to act as though they normally would in a situation where they know they are being studied.
Great post. Nice quick review of the general chapter and good job picking a point that was interesting to you and relaying your thoughts to us.