LECTURE -- CHAPTER TWO (RESEARCH)

This chapter begins by describing the scientific method: research question formulation, hypothesis formation, hypothesis testing, designing and researching methodology and drawing conclusions. The scientific method also serves as an outline for scientific research reports. The goals of the science of human sexuality are to describe, explain, predict and control behavior To achieve these goals, researchers must always operationally define their terms. 

Various sampling methods for choosing subjects within a population are discussed. The problem of volunteer bias is explained.

Five research methods (case-study, survey, observational, correlational, and experimental) are examined. For each method, the related terminology, the variations, the problems with generalizability, the advantages and disadvantages, and the limitations of its use are examined. Examples of studies using each method are described, and some results are presented.

The case study method with its emphasis on an individual or a small group is presented, and the problems with generalizability are emphasized. The presentation of the survey method includes descriptions of classic and new surveys, magazine surveys, and several surveys of diverse populations. The sampling techniques of each are analyzed. The observational methods described include naturalistic observation of humans and animals, ethnographic observation, ‘participant observation, and laboratory observation. The significance of statistical correlations between variables is explained, and the lack of cause-and-effect conclusions is emphasized.

The chapter concludes with an examination of the ethical obligations-sex researchers have to their subjects. The authors describe the role of institutional ethics review committees in protecting subjects from harm.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Explain the four essential elements of the research method.

2, List the four broad goals of the science of human sexuality.

3. Describe the sampling methods used to choose research subjects and identify the problems associated with these methods.

4. Describe the case study method and its limitations.

5. Describe and analyze the sampling techniques used in several large-scale surveys discussed in this chapter.

DISCUSSION

Use a full paragraph for each of your answers.  Remember that you must first respond to the questions and then post replies to at least two other student postings.  

What research method did the Kinsey team use?  What research question did they attempt to answer? In what way might the choice of terms used in a survey influence the outcome?

QUIZ

There will be a graded quizzes this week. This lesson does contain a graded quiz.  Please complete it.