Research methods in psychology are those techniques and means by which psychologists obtain reliable information used to build scientific theories and develop practical recommendations. The strength of science largely depends on the perfection of research methods, on how valid and reliable they are, how quickly a given branch of knowledge is able to absorb and use all the newest, most advanced that appears in the methods of other sciences. Where this can be done, there is usually a noticeable breakthrough in the knowledge of the world.

All of the above applies to psychology. Thanks to the application of the methods of natural and exact sciences, psychology, starting from the second half of the last century, stood out as an independent science and began to develop actively. Until that moment, psychological knowledge was obtained mainly through self-observation (introspection), speculative reasoning, and observation of the behavior of other people. The analysis of the facts obtained by such methods served as the basis for the construction of the first scientific theories explaining the essence of psychological phenomena and human behavior. However, the subjectivity of these methods, their lack of reliability were the reason that psychology for a long time remained a non-experimental science, divorced from practice, capable of assuming, but not proving, causal relationships that exist between mental and other phenomena.

In science there are General requirements to the objectivity of scientific psychological research. The principle of objective psychological research is implemented by a variety of methodological means.

1. , consciousness are studied in the unity of internal and external manifestations. However, the relationship between the external flow of the process and its internal nature is not always adequate. The general task of all methods of objective psychological research is to adequately reveal this relationship - to determine its internal psychological nature from the external course of an act.
2. Our psychology affirms the unity of mental and physical, therefore psychological research often includes a physiological analysis of psychological processes. For example, it is hardly possible to study emotional processes without analyzing their physiological components. Psychological research cannot study mental phenomena in isolation from their psychophysiological mechanisms.
3. The material foundations of the psyche are not reduced to its organic foundations, the way people think is determined by their way of life, the consciousness of people is determined by social practice. Therefore, the methodology of psychological research should be based on the analysis of human activity.
4. Psychological patterns are revealed in the process. The study of development is not only a special field, but also a specific method of psychological research. The point is not to fix different levels of development, but to study driving forces this process.

Psychology, like any science, uses a whole system of different methods. In domestic psychology, the following four groups of methods are distinguished:
1. include:
a) comparative genetic method (comparison of different species groups according to psychological indicators);

• cross-sectional method (comparison of selected same psychological indicators in different groups of subjects);
• longitudinal method - the method of longitudinal sections (multiple examinations of the same persons for a long time);
• an integrated method (representatives of various sciences participate in the study, while, as a rule, one object is studied by different means). Research of this kind makes it possible to establish connections and dependencies between phenomena of various types, for example, between the physiological, psychological and social development of the individual.

• auto-training;
• group training;
• methods of psychotherapeutic influence;
• education.

Features of the experimental research method:

1. The researcher himself causes the phenomenon he is studying and actively influences it.
2. The experimenter can vary, change the conditions under which the phenomenon occurs.
3. In the experiment, it is possible to repeatedly reproduce the results.
4. The experiment makes it possible to establish quantitative regularities allowing mathematical formulation.

The main task of a psychological experiment is to make mental regularities accessible to objective observation. In the structure of the experiment, it is possible to designate a system of research stages and tasks:
I- theoretical stage of research (problem statement). At this stage, the following tasks are solved:

• the formulation of the problem and the topic of the study, the title of the topic should include the basic concepts of the subject of the study,
• definition of the object and subject of research,
• determination of experimental tasks and research hypotheses.

At this stage, the known facts on the topic of research obtained by other scientists are clarified, which makes it possible to determine the range of solved problems and unsolved problems and formulate hypotheses and problems of a particular experiment. This stage can be considered as a relatively independent research activities theoretical character.

II - methodical stage of research. At this stage, the experimental methodology and experimental plan are developed. There are two sets of variables in an experiment: independent and dependent. The factor that the experimenter changes is called the independent variable; The factor that the independent variable causes to change is called the dependent variable.

The development of an experimental plan involves two points:

1. drawing up a work plan and a sequence of experimental procedures,
2. mathematical model of experimental data processing.

III - pilot stage. At this stage, direct experiments are carried out. The main problem of this stage is to create in the subjects an identical understanding of the task of their activity in the experiment. This problem is solved through the reproduction of the same conditions for all subjects and instructions, which aims to bring all subjects to a common understanding of the task, acting as a kind of psychological attitude.

IV- analytical stage. At this stage, a quantitative analysis of the results (mathematical processing), scientific interpretation of the facts obtained is carried out; formulation of new scientific hypotheses and practical recommendations. Regarding the mathematical coefficients of statistics, it should be remembered that they are external in relation to the essence of the studied mental phenomena, describing the probability of their manifestation and the relationship between the frequencies of the compared events, and not between their essences. The essence of phenomena is revealed through the subsequent scientific interpretation of empirical facts.

The expansion of the use of the experiment moved from the elementary processes of sensation to the higher mental processes. The modern experimental method exists in three forms: laboratory, natural and formative experiment.

Three considerations are put forward against the laboratory experiment. The artificiality of the experiment, the analyticity and abstractness of the experiment, the complicating role of the experimenter's influence are pointed out.

A peculiar version of the experiment, representing, as it were, an intermediate form between observation and experiment, is the method of the so-called natural experiment proposed by the Russian scientist A.F. Lazursky (1910). His main tendency is to combine the experimental nature of the study with the naturalness of the conditions. Instead of translating the phenomena under study into laboratory conditions, researchers try to find natural conditions that suit their goals. A natural experiment that solves the problems of psychological and pedagogical research is called a psychological and pedagogical experiment. Its role is exceptionally great in the study of the cognitive abilities of students at various age stages.

Another variation of the experimental method is called formative experimentation. In this case, the experiment acts as a means of influencing, changing the psychology of people. Its originality lies in the fact that it simultaneously serves as a means of research and a means of forming the phenomenon under study. The formative experiment is characterized by the active intervention of the researcher in the mental processes he is studying. As an example of a formative experiment, one can consider the modeling of psychological and pedagogical situations. This method is based on the design of new education and training programs and ways to implement them.

• all methods of group training are focused on teaching group interaction;
• these methods are based on the student's activity (through the inclusion of research elements in the training).

If traditional methods are focused mainly on conveying ready-made knowledge, then here the research participants themselves must come to them.

All the many forms of socio-psychological training can be divided into two large classes:

• games focused on the development of social skills (for example, the ability to conduct a discussion, resolve interpersonal conflicts). Among game methods, the method of role-playing games is the most widely used;
• group discussions aimed at the skills of analyzing communication situations - analyzing oneself, a communication partner, a group situation as a whole. The group discussion method is most often used in the form of case studies.

Forms of group training are very diverse. Classes can be recorded on tape or videotaped. The last form of training is called "video training". This audio and video recording is used by the training leader for review by the group members and subsequent group discussion.

The practice of group training is currently a booming industry. applied psychology. Socio-psychological training is used to train specialists of various profiles: managers, teachers, doctors, psychologists, etc. It is used to correct the dynamics of marital conflicts, improve relations between parents and children, correct socio-psychological maladjustment of adolescents, etc.

Introduction

1. The concept of methods of psychological research

2.Classification of psychological research methods

2.1 Organizational methods

2.2 Empirical methods

2.3 Data processing methods

2.4 Interpretive methods

Conclusion

Literature

Introduction

Psychology is a science, and science is, first of all, a study, therefore the characterization of science is not limited to the definition of its subject; it includes the definition of its method. Methods, i.e., ways of knowing, are the ways by which the subject of science is known. Psychology, like every science, uses not one, but a whole system of particular methods, or techniques.

Methods of scientific research are those methods and means by which scientists obtain reliable information that is used further to build scientific theories and develop practical recommendations. The strength of science largely depends on the perfection of research methods, on how valid and reliable they are.

All of the above applies to psychology. Its phenomena are so complex and peculiar, so difficult to study, that throughout the history of this science its success has directly depended on the perfection of the research methods used. Over time, it turned out to be integrated methods of various sciences. These are the methods of philosophy and sociology, mathematics and physics, computer science and cybernetics, physiology and medicine, biology and history, and a number of other sciences.

The methods of psychological research are focused on the fact that there are patterns of psychological reality common to all people, which reveal themselves in the interaction of people in the historical conditions of a particular time in their lives. In modern psychological science, the use of methods is due to the scientific approach to the study of mental phenomena, which is guided by a certain psychological direction.

In psychology, there big variety methods of psychological research that can be classified, while each of the general methods has a number of modifications that clarify, but do not change their essence. The use of one of them or several at once, as a rule, is determined by the specific tasks assigned to the study.

aimThis work is the study of the essence of the methods of psychological research.

During the study, the following tasks:

give the concept of scientific research methods;

give the concept of methods of psychological research;

consider issues related to the choice of methods of psychological research;

to study the main classifications of psychological research methods;

to consider separate methods of psychological research.

1. The concept of methods of psychological research

Methodsin science are called methods, techniques for studying the phenomena that make up the subject of this science; the use of these techniques should lead to a correct knowledge of the phenomena being studied, i.e., to an adequate (corresponding to reality) reflection in the human mind of their inherent features and patterns. Method is the main way to collect, process or analyze data. The method is: a set of techniques or operations of practical knowledge; a set of techniques or operations of theoretical knowledge; way of solving a theoretical problem.

The research methods used in science cannot be arbitrary, chosen without sufficient grounds, just at the whim of the researcher. True knowledge is achieved only when the methods used in science are built in accordance with the objectively existing laws of nature and social life.

When constructing scientific research methods, it is necessary first of all to rely on the following of these laws:

a) all phenomena of the reality around us are in mutual connection and conditionality;

b) all the phenomena of the reality around us are always in the process of development, change, therefore, the correct methods should investigate the studied phenomena in their development, and not as something stable, frozen in its immobility

These provisions are valid for any science, including psychology. Let us consider what are the methods of psychology.

Psychology, like every science, uses a whole system of various particular methods, or techniques. The methods of psychological research are those methods and means by which the facts are obtained, used to prove the provisions, from which, in turn, a scientific theory is formed.

The strength of science largely depends on the methods of psychological research, on how quickly and effectively it is able to perceive and use all the latest that appears in the methods of other sciences. Where this can be done, there is a breakthrough in knowledge.

Up to the second half of XIX centuries, psychological knowledge was obtained mainly through direct observation of other people and self-observation. Analysis and reasonable generalization of this kind of life facts have played a positive role in the history of psychology. They led to the construction of the first scientific theories explaining the essence of psychological phenomena and human behavior.

At the end of the 80s. XIX century in psychology began to create and use special technical instruments and devices that allow the researcher to set up a scientific experiment and control its conditions, in particular, to dose the impact of physical stimuli to which a person must respond.

It should be noted that the general trend, which has clearly manifested itself in the improvement of research methods in various sciences over the past century, is their mathematization and technicalization. This trend also manifested itself in psychology, giving it the status of a fairly accurate experimental science. Now in psychology, radio and video equipment, electronic equipment are used.

Along with the mathematization and technicalization of research methods in psychology, they have not lost their significance and are still accepted by general, traditional methods of collecting information, such as observation and questioning. There are many reasons for their persistence: the phenomena studied in psychology are unique and complex, they cannot always be identified with the help of technical means and describe in exact mathematical formulas. Despite the fact that modern mathematics and technology are extremely complex in themselves, they remain quite simple compared to the phenomena that psychology studies. For the study of subtle phenomena and psychological categories that psychology deals with, in many cases they are simply not suitable.

The choice of one or another method is important for successful psychological research. The choice of the psychological research method takes into account the specifics of the tasks set during the research, and not by simply sorting through a large arsenal of known methods of psychological research. The psychologist must have a good idea of ​​the advantages and disadvantages of each of the methods, the possibility of their joint application, their acceptability for solving the problem.

In the most general and typical form, several main stages of research can be distinguished, at each of which peculiar combinations of scientific methods should be applied.

1) One of the first stages of solving research problems is a general description of the basic concepts of the subject of research, i.e. the definition of these concepts, the identification of their main components, the substantiation of the signs by which one can judge the concepts. At this stage, the prevalence of theoretical methods of psychological research is natural.

2) At the second stage of the study, it becomes necessary to analyze the typical state of practice in solving such problems, and therefore methods such as observation and modeling should be used here.

3) At the next stage of the study, the validity of the hypotheses is verified, and here it is already necessary to put into effect the methods of experiment and experimental verification, which will allow choosing the most successful options for solving the corresponding psychological problems.

4) Finally, the researcher determines which methods will be applied at the final stage of the study, when the results of the study are summarized and psychological recommendations are formulated. Most often, this requires a combination of methods of theoretical generalization of experimental data and forecasting the further improvement of mental processes, states, formations and personality traits.

Thus, the choice of research methods is not an arbitrary act of the psychologist. It is determined by the characteristics of the tasks being solved, the specifics of the content of the problems and the capabilities of the researcher himself.

2. Classification of methods of psychological research

In domestic and foreign psychology, there are several classifications of psychological research methods, for example, the Bulgarian psychologist G.D. Piriev divided the methods of psychology into:

1) the actual methods (observation, experiment, modeling, etc.);

2) methodological techniques;

3) methodological approaches (genetic, psychophysiological, etc.).

He singled out as independent methods: observation (objective - direct and indirect, subjective - direct and indirect), experiment (laboratory, natural and psychological-pedagogical), modeling, psychological characteristics, auxiliary methods (mathematical, graphic, biochemical, etc.), specific methodological approaches (genetic, comparative, etc.). Each of these methods is subdivided into a number of others. So, for example, observation (indirect) is divided into questionnaires, questionnaires, the study of products of activity, etc.

S.L. Rubinstein singled out observation and experiment as the main psychological methods. Observation was subdivided into "external" and "internal" (self-observation), experiment - into laboratory, natural and psychological-pedagogical. In addition, he singled out methods for studying the products of activity, a conversation and a questionnaire.

Ananiev B. G. criticized Piryov's classification, proposing another one. He divided all methods into: 1) organizational; 2) empirical; 3) methods of data processing and 4) interpretation. It was his classification of psychological research methods that became more widespread in Russian psychology.

In the atlas of psychology published in Germany, the methods of psychology are grouped on the basis of systematic observation, posing questions and experience (experimentation); respectively, there are three following groups of methods:

1) observational: measurement, self-observation, external (third-party) observation, included observation, group observation and supervision;

2) questionnaires: conversation, description, interview, standardized survey, demoscopy and co-action;

3) experimental: testing; search, or pilot, experiment; quasi-experiment; verification experiment; field experiment.

The absence of a strict scientific classification is explained by a wide range of methods of psychology, subject to the solution of research problems and practical problems of various branches of psychology.

Let us consider in more detail the types of methods of psychological research.

2.1 Organizational methods

The group of organizational methods includes:

comparative;

longitudinal;

complex.

Organizational methods, judging by their name, are designed to determine the research strategy. The choice of a particular research organization depends on the selection of specific methods, the research procedure, its final theoretical and practical results.

Comparative methodthe organization of the study consists in obtaining one or more slices of the current state (the level of development of quality, relationships, etc.) and comparing the results with a similar slice that was carried out at a different time, with other subjects, in other conditions, etc. For comparison, ideal or model characteristics, standard values ​​and other indicators can be used.

The advantage of the comparative method of research organization is the speed of obtaining results and clarity of interpretation. The disadvantages include the need to take into account many factors for the objectivity of comparison, low prediction accuracy and the need for a criterion for comparison. This method is effectively used in professional selection, when, based on the results of testing, a conclusion is made about the suitability of the subject for a particular job - the data obtained are compared with professionally important qualities in this activity.

Longitudinal method(from the English "long-time" - long in time) consists in observing the object of study for a certain time and systematic sections for this period. Based on the results of the study, the dynamics of changes in the studied features is analyzed. The advantage of this method is the possibility of predicting further development, self-sufficiency and high reliability of the results, and the disadvantages are the duration of the study and a large amount of data, often duplicating each other. The longitudinal method is used to study long-term influences, for example, pedagogical or psychotherapeutic.

Complex methodcombines the possibilities of comparative and longitudinal, when typical indicators of a series of slices are considered as an indicator for comparison, and the results of the initial and final slices are different data for analysis. This method is often used to evaluate the effectiveness of training programs, when the dynamics of mastering the material, the strength of its assimilation, and the amount of acquired knowledge and skills are studied.

2.2 Empirical methods

Empirical methods serve for the direct collection of facts and combine a fairly large group of methods, namely:

1) observation (self-observation) - this requires a plan, criteria, the ability to differentiate the observed signs, a group of experts to reduce the subjectivity of the final result;

2) experiment (laboratory and natural): a procedure for testing hypotheses when the end result is unknown;

3) testing (questionnaires, blank, manipulation, motor, projective): a standard procedure, when the result options are determined, but it is not known which option is typical for a given subject;

4) survey (questionnaire, interview, conversation): obtaining answers to the questions asked - in writing, orally and depending on the answers to previous questions;

5) modeling (mathematical, cybernetic, simulation, etc.): study of an object by creating and analyzing its model;

6) analysis of activity products: the main advantage of this method is that the study can be carried out indirectly, that is, without the presence of the subject.

Let's consider some of them in more detail.

Surveillance -the task of the method of objective observation is the knowledge of the qualitative features of the studied mental processes and the disclosure of regular connections and relationships between them. It is based on the direct perception by the researcher of the objective manifestations of the studied mental processes in the corresponding types of activity.

Most feature method of observation is that it allows you to study the phenomenon under study directly in its natural conditions, as this phenomenon occurs in real life. The method of observation excludes the use of any methods that could introduce changes or disturbances in the natural course of the phenomena being studied. Thanks to this, the method of observation makes it possible to cognize the phenomenon under study in its entirety and life-like veracity of its qualitative features.

The subject of objective observation in psychology is not direct subjective mental experiences, but their manifestations in actions and behavior of a person, in his speech and activity.

A properly organized method of objective observation in psychology is characterized by the following features:

1. The phenomena to be studied are observed under their usual conditions, without making any changes in their natural course. The very fact of observation should not violate the phenomenon under study.

2. Observation is carried out under conditions most characteristic of the phenomenon under study. For example, it is better to observe the features of emotional-volitional processes in connection with sports activities during competitions than at ordinary physical education lessons.

3. The collection of material through observations is carried out according to a previously drawn up plan (program) in accordance with the task of the study.

4. Observation is carried out not once, but systematically; the number of observations and the number of persons observed should be sufficient to obtain meaningful results.

5. The phenomenon under study must be observed under different, regularly changing conditions.

Experiment -The experiment differs from the method of simple observation primarily in its tasks. With the help of experiment we mainly explain the phenomena under study, while with the help of observation we mainly describe them.

An experiment as a research method is characterized by the following features:

1. The researcher deliberately creates, brings to life a phenomenon of interest to him.

2. A special experimental setting is created that makes it possible to observe the phenomenon in its relatively pure form, excluding the influence of random conditions, which, with the method of simple observation, often prevent revealing the real connections that exist between phenomena.

3. The phenomenon under study is repeated as many times as necessary for the researcher.

4. The conditions under which the phenomenon under study proceeds change naturally.

5. As a rule, the experimental method is equipped with special precise measuring equipment, which makes it possible to obtain a quantitative characteristic of the phenomenon under study and to subject the results to statistical processing, which is often necessary to characterize the patterns under study.

Conversation- when conducting psychological research, it is often necessary to collect data characterizing psychological features the personalities of the subjects (their beliefs, interests, aspirations, attitude towards the team, their understanding of their duties), as well as their living conditions, etc. In such studies, the method of simple observation turns out to be of little use, since it requires a very long time to obtain any detailed material on these issues.

In such cases, the method of conversation is successfully used, which is essentially directed observation, concentrated around a limited number of questions of importance in this study. This method consists in a casual conversation with people being interviewed on questions of interest to the researcher (the conversation should not turn into a questionnaire).

The objective material that is collected in this case naturally has a speech form. The researcher judges the phenomenon under study by the speech reactions of the interlocutors .

The correct use of the method of conversation involves:

the presence of the researcher's personal contact with the subjects, established long before the conversation;

having a well-thought-out conversation plan;

the ability of the researcher to apply not direct questions, but indirect ways to obtain materials of interest to him;

the ability of the researcher to clarify the facts of interest to him during a live conversation, to bring clarity to them without resorting to recording or shorthand;

clarification of the reliability of the data obtained through subsequent observations, with the help of additional information received from other persons, etc.

2.3 Data processing methods

Methods for processing experimental data are divided into quantitative and qualitative.

The first includes mathematical and statistical processing, the second - a description of typical manifestations or exceptions to the general rule.

TO mathematical and statistical processingall procedures for converting qualitative data into quantitative indicators should be attributed: expert assessment on a scale, rating, normalization, as well as all forms of statistical analysis - correlation, regression, factorial, dispersion, cluster, etc.

Let's consider some of them.

Method of expert assessments- a formalized procedure for collecting, analyzing and interpreting independent judgments of a sufficient number of experts on the severity of each of the psychological qualities or phenomena to be assessed. It is widely used in personality psychology. At the same time, it is most expedient to carry out expert assessments not in the form of a description of the qualitative manifestations of properties (it is much more effective to do this in a subsequent conversation with experts), but in the form of a quantitative assessment of the degree of a particular property or element of behavior.

Factor method -it is a system of models and methods for converting the original set of features to a simpler and more meaningful form. It is based on the assumption that the observed behavior of the subject can be explained by a small number of hidden characteristics, called factors.

When using this method, generalization of data is a grouping of subjects according to the degree of their proximity in the space of measured features, that is, groups of similar subjects are distinguished.

There are two main options for setting the task:

grouping of subjects into unspecified groups;

grouping of subjects into predetermined groups.

The task of grouping subjects into unspecified groups. This version of the problem is formulated as follows: there is a multidimensional psychological description of the sample of subjects and it is required to divide them into homogeneous groups, that is, such a division in which the selected groups would include subjects similar in psychological characteristics. Such a statement of the task of grouping subjects corresponds to intuitive ideas about the type of personality.

To solve this problem, cluster analysis is used, which is developed within the framework of the mathematical theory of pattern recognition.

The task of grouping subjects into given groups. When solving this problem, it is assumed that there are results of a multidimensional psychological examination of several groups of subjects, and it is known in advance about each subject to which group he belongs. The task is to find a rule for dividing the subjects into given groups according to psychological characteristics.

Cluster method -method of automatic classification, designed to analyze the structure of the relative position of the subjects in the S space of the measured features. It allows for an objective classification of subjects according to a large set of features and is based on the “compactness” hypothesis. If we represent each subject as a point in a multidimensional feature space, then it is natural to assume that the geometric proximity of points in this space indicates the similarity of the corresponding subjects. The methods of cluster analysis (automatic classification) make it possible to obtain an abbreviated description of the distribution of subjects by highlighting their clusters in the space of the studied features.

2.4 Interpretive methods

The least developed and extremely important are interpretative methods, which include various variants of genetic and structural methods.

The genetic method makes it possible to interpret all the processed research material in terms of developmental characteristics, highlighting the phases, stages, and critical moments in the formation of mental neoplasms. It establishes "vertical" genetic links between levels of development.

The genetic method can cover all levels of development, from neural to behavioral.

The relationship between parts and the whole, that is, functions and the individual, the subject of activity and the personality, is determined by structural methods (psychography, typological classification, psychological profile). The structural method establishes "horizontal" structural links between all the studied personality characteristics.

The structural method interprets all the material in the characteristics of systems and the types of connections between them. The specific expression of this method is psychography, as a holistic synthetic description of individuality. Psychography is a specific method for studying individual psychological differences between people. It allows you to identify links between potentialities, abilities and trends, the orientation of individuality, identify the main contradictions and formulate a development forecast.

To analyze the data obtained using genetic and structural methods, computer diagnostics are used. In computer diagnostics, when analyzing the forms of interpretation of research data, it is also important to consider the forms of presenting the results, which can be divided into: numerical indicators; text description; graphic representation. Modern computer programs, such as MS Office or statistical processing packages, provide ample opportunities for choosing the form of computer diagnostics of psychological research data analysis, and it is always possible to quickly create different options in search of the most successful one.

Conclusion

Thus, having considered the methods of psychological research, we can draw the following conclusions:

1. Psychology helps a person to understand his own mental life, to understand himself, to realize his strengths and weaknesses, his shortcomings. To study the mental processes and psychological characteristics of the individual, various types of activity, psychology applies certain research methods.

2. Certain requirements are imposed on the methods of psychological research: the methods of psychological study must be objective, give reliable, reliable material, free from distortions, subjective interpretation and speed of conclusions. After all, methods allow not only to describe and register mental phenomena, but also to scientifically explain them.

3. To date, there is no strict scientific classification of psychological research methods, which is explained by the presence of quite a wide range various methods. Among the most common methods of psychological research are: observation, experiment, conversation, study of activity products, questionnaire, tests, and many others. Moreover, along with the mathematization and technization of research in psychology, these traditional methods of collecting scientific information have not yet lost their significance.

4. In the process of development of psychology, not only theories and concepts change, but also research methods: they lose their contemplative, ascertaining character, and become formative or, more precisely, transformative. Thus, the development of the methodological arsenal of modern psychology consists in a special consolidation of all research methods, the result of which is the formation of new complexes of research methods.

Literature

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3. Introduction

a. Introduction

b. The emergence of psychodiagnostics as a science and the main stages of its development

4. Methods of research in psychology

a. Main

b. Auxiliary

6. List of used literature

SUMMARY

Psychodiagnostics establishes a psychodiagnostic diagnosis - a description of the state of objects, which can be an individual, group or organization.

The history of modern psychodiagnostics begins in the first quarter of the 19th century. At this time, such methods of psychodiagnostics as observation, questioning, analysis of documents appear.

The main methods of scientific research in psychology are observation and experiment, and auxiliary methods are communication and analysis of the results of activities.

Observation- a method of psychological research, consisting in a deliberate, systematic and purposeful perception and fixation of manifestations of behavior, obtaining judgments about the subjective mental phenomena of the observed. By the nature of the organization, observation can be random or systematic. Great importance when observed, it belongs to the analysis of erroneous human actions, which allows you to hide the causes of their occurrence and outline ways to eliminate them.

Experiment- one of the main, along with observation, methods of scientific knowledge in general and psychological research in particular. It differs from observation primarily in that it involves a special organization of the research situation, active intervention in the situation by the researcher, who systematically manipulates one or more variable factors and registers the corresponding changes in the behavior of the operator under test. The advantage of the experiment also lies in the fact that it is possible to specially cause some kind of mental process, to trace the dependence of a psychological phenomenon on changing external conditions. However, despite these shortcomings and limitations, the experiment occupies one of the most important places in the practice of engineering and psychological research.

The method of conversation, the questionnaire method. A certain value and methods of psychological research associated with the collection and analysis of verbal testimony (statements) of the subjects: The method of conversation and the questionnaire method. When carried out correctly, they allow you to identify individual psychological characteristics of a person: inclinations, interests, tastes, attitudes towards life facts and phenomena, other people, and oneself.

Questioning is a list of questions that are given to the studied persons for a written response. The advantage of this method is that it makes it possible to obtain mass material relatively easily and quickly. The disadvantage of this method in comparison with the conversation is the lack of personal contact with the subject, which does not make it possible to vary the nature of the questions depending on the answers. Questions should be precise, clear, understandable, should not inspire this or that answer.

The material of conversations and questionnaires is valuable when it is supported and controlled by other methods, in particular, observation.

Tests. The test is a special kind pilot study, representing a special task or system of tasks. The subject performs a task, the execution time of which is usually taken into account. Tests are used in the study of abilities, the level of mental development, skills, the level of assimilation of knowledge, as well as in the study of individual characteristics of the course of mental processes.

Survey- a method of psychological research, which consists in the freedom of information obtained in the form of answers to the questions posed. The survey is usually preceded by a preface that creates an atmosphere of trust and understanding of the unity of purpose of the researcher and the interviewee. The possibility of not indicating your last name on the questionnaire in some cases allows you to get more complete information.

So, in psychology, a number of methods are used. Which of them is rational to apply is decided in each individual case, depending on the tasks and the object of study. In this case, not one method is usually used, but a number of methods that complement and control each other.
INTRODUCTION

Introduction

Psychodiagnostics is not only a direction in psychology, but also a theoretical discipline. Psychodiagnostics in a practical sense can be defined as the establishment of a psychodiagnostic diagnosis - a description of the state of objects, which can be an individual, group or organization.

With the help of psychodiagnostic methods, an analysis of the activity of the operator (or its individual parties) in real or laboratory conditions is carried out, an assessment of the impact various kinds factors on the operator's activity and its results.

All science is based on facts. She collects facts, compares them and draws conclusions - establishes the laws of the field of activity that she studies. The methods of obtaining these facts are called the methods of scientific research. The main methods of scientific research in psychology are observation and experiment, and auxiliary methods are communication and analysis of the results of activities.

The emergence of psychodiagnostics as a science and the main stages of its development

The history of modern psychodiagnostics begins in the first quarter of the 19th century, i.e. since the beginning of the clinical period in the development of psychodiagnostic knowledge. Psychiatrists began to conduct systematic observations of patients in clinics, recording and analyzing the results of their observations.

At this time, such methods of psychodiagnostics as observation, questioning, analysis of documents appear. But these methods were of a qualitative nature, therefore, according to the same data, different doctors often made different conclusions.

Only in the second half of the 19th century, when the German psychologist Wundt created the world's first psychodiagnostic laboratory, where technical devices and instruments began to be used for the purposes of psychodiagnostics, did the methods of psychodiagnostics acquire a quantitative character.

At the same time, the basic (basal) psychophysical law of Weber was discovered.

Conducting experiments to distinguish between weights, line lengths and acoustic pitch heights, Weber found that the ratio of a barely noticeable change in the stimulus dI to its initial value I is a constant value, i.e. dI/I=constant.

According to Weber's law, the differential sensitivity threshold is a certain constant part the value of the initial stimulus by which it must be increased or decreased in order to obtain a barely perceptible transformation of sensation.

The discovery of Weber's law made it possible to measure psychodiagnostic phenomena. In accordance with this law, human sensations became the main object of measurement, and for a long time practical psychodiagnostics was limited to measuring sensations.

Modern methods of psychodiagnostics, concerning the main psychodiagnostic processes, properties and states of a person, began to appear in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. at this time, the theory of probability and mathematical statistics were actively developing, on which they subsequently began to rely scientific methods quantitative psychodiagnostics.

In 1884, the English psychologist Galton founded the Anthropometric Laboratory, one of its goals was to obtain statistical data on human abilities. About 10,000 people went through this experiment. In 1877, he also proposed using the correlation method in psychodiagnostics.

A contemporary of Galton Fisher invented the analysis of variance, and another Englishman Spearman invented factor analysis.

The first statistically valid Binet test appeared in 1905-1907.

In the 1920s, new psychodiagnostic tests began to appear, including intellectual and personality tests, which made it possible to carry out psychodiagnostics of various processes and human properties.

For the 50-60s of the XX century. accounts for the bulk of various psychodiagnostic techniques.

Modern psychodiagnostics has become a separate area of ​​scientific and practical psychodiagnostic knowledge. Increasingly widespread use in psychodiagnostics is modern methods mathematics and physics, as well as means of electronic psychodiagnostics.

Research methods in psychology

Main

Observation- a method of psychological research, consisting in a deliberate, systematic and purposeful perception and fixation of manifestations of behavior, obtaining judgments about the subjective mental phenomena of the observed. Observation has the following main areas of application: 1) analysis of behavior in case of systematic changes in the situation; this allows you to trace the nature of the sequence of actions, methods of planning and controlling activities, the accuracy of reproduction of instructions, the frequency of use of certain devices, etc.; 2) Observation of the work of one operator in various situations, which allows you to evaluate the impact various situations on the quality of activities; 3) Observation of the behavior of different operators in the same conditions; such observation makes it possible to identify the individual characteristics of operators, to give comparative characteristic activity quality. By the nature of the organization, observation can be random or systematic. Observation is usually supplemented by a number of ways to objectively record the phenomena being studied. These include, in particular, photographing or filming the working posture and facial expression of the operator, the readings of the instruments and indicators observed by him, the directions of gaze and working movements. Observation can be refined with the help of measurements. These can be measurements of the geometric dimensions of the workplace, measurements of the time and sequence of work and rest, measurements of the time for performing individual actions and movements. In the process of observation, measurements of human physiological parameters are also widely carried out: pulse and respiration rate, blood pressure, electrical activity of the heart, brain, muscles, etc. Of great importance in observation is the analysis of human erroneous actions, which makes it possible to hide the causes of their occurrence and outline ways to eliminate them.

Preview:

Topic 1

METHODS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH

Psychological research: requirements for the organization and its stages

Characteristics of the main empirical methods of psychology

Possession of methods for studying the psychology of personality is one of the necessary components of the professional activity of a lawyer. A lawyer must be able to identify, analyze and take into account the individual psychological characteristics of a person (witness, suspect, accused), the goals of their actions and actions, hidden motives of behavior. The choice of methods for studying the personality of the subjects of various legal relations in the professional activities of a lawyer, as well as the adequacy of the methods themselves, largely depends on the goals that he faces and on the nature of the issues that need to be resolved.

Psychological research:
requirements for the organization and its stages

The method of obtaining objective knowledge about the surrounding reality is scientific research.Psychological research− it is a way of scientific knowledge of the essence of mental phenomena and their laws.

Psychological research includes a number of mandatory steps (Fig. 1) .

Any scientific research, including psychological research, must meet a number of strict requirements:

1. Study planning involves the development of a logical and chronological scheme of research, consisting of a detailed design of all its stages.
2. Locationresearch should provide isolation from external interference, meet sanitary and hygienic and engineering and psychological requirements.

1. Studying the state of the problem. Statement of the problem, choice of object and subject of research

2. Development or refinement of the general initial research concept. Hypothesis

3. Study planning

4. Data collection and factual description. In a theoretical study - the search and selection of facts, their systematization

5. Data processing

Determination of the goals and objectives of the study

Definition of experimental plans

Choice of research methods and techniques

Definition of mathematical processing methods data

6 . Evaluation of the results of hypothesis testing, interpretation of the results within the framework of the original research concept

7. Correlation of results with existing concepts and theories. Formulation of general conclusions. Assessment of the prospects for further development of the problem

Rice. 1. The main stages of psychological research

3. Technical equipmentshould correspond to the tasks to be solved, the entire course of the study and the level of analysis of the results obtained.

4. Selection of subjectsdepends on the objectives of the particular study andshould ensure their qualitative homogeneity.

5. Instruction must be clear, concise and unambiguous for the subjects.

6. Protocol research should be both complete and focused (selective).

7. Results processingresearch includes quantitative and qualitative methods for analyzing the empirical data obtained during the study .

Classification of research methods

Methods of psychologyname the main methods and means of cognition of mental phenomena and their patterns.

It should be noted that, although all methods aim to reveal the laws of the psyche and human behavior, each method does this in accordance with its inherent characteristics.

Future lawyers need to clearly understand the features of each method in order to actively use them in their professional activities. In psychology, there are four groups of research methods (Fig. 2) .

organizational methods.This group includes comparative, longitudinal and complex methods, which are used throughout the study and represent various organizational and research approaches.

Comparative methodinvolves a comparison of the objects under study on various grounds, indicators.

Longitudinal methodinvolves multiple examinations of the same persons over a long period of time.

Complex methodresearch is to consider the object from the standpoint of various sciences or from different points of view.

Classification

Methods of psychological research

Organizational

Data processing methods

Interpretation methods

empirical

Comparative

Phylogenetic

ontogenetic

Typology

Methods of mathematical and statistical data analysis

Qualitative analysis methods

Genetic

Structural

Complex

Longitudinal

Analysis of processes and products of activity

Biographical

Observation

Experiment

Psychodiagnostic methods

Method of expert assessments

Rice. 2. Classification of methods of psychological research
B.G. Ananyeva

empirical methods.These are, first of all, observation and experiment, as well as psychodiagnostic methods (conversation, questioning, testing, etc.), the method of expert assessments, the method of analyzing the process and products of activity, and the biographical method (Fig. 3).

Main

Auxiliary

Psychodiagnostic
methods:

1. conversation
2. questioning
3. testing

Observation

Observation:

1. open
2. hidden
3. passive
4. active
5. laboratory
6. natural
7. random
8. systematic
9. included
10. unincluded
11. continuous
12. selective
13. longitudinal
14. periodic
15. single

Experiment:

1. laboratory
2. natural
3. ascertaining
4. formative

Method of expert
ratings

Process and product analysis method
activities

biographical method

Empirical Research Methods

Observation

Rice. 3. Basic empirical methods of psychology

Data processing methods.These include quantitative(statistical) and qualitative(differentiation of material by groups, its analysis) methods.

Interpretation methods.This group includes genetic (analysis of material in terms of development with the allocation of individual phases, stages, critical moments, etc.) and structural(revealing the relationship between all personality characteristics) methods.

Characteristics of the main empirical methods
psychology

Observation Method

Observation - one of the main empirical methods of psychology, consisting in a deliberate, systematic and purposeful perception of mental phenomena in order to study their specific changes in certain conditions and search for the meaning of these phenomena, which is not directly given .

The description of phenomena based on observation is scientific if the psychological understanding of the inner side of the observed act contained in it gives a natural explanation of its external manifestation.

Only exteriorized (external) manifestations of verbal and non-verbal behavior are available for observation:

1. pantomime (posture, gait, gestures, postures, etc.);
2. facial expressions (facial expression, its expressiveness, etc.);
3. speech (silence, talkativeness, verbosity, laconism; stylistic features, content and culture of speech; intonation richness, etc.);
4. behavior in relation to other people (position in the team and attitude to this, the method of establishing contact, the nature of communication, communication style, position in communication, etc.);
5. the presence of contradictions in behavior (demonstration of different, opposite in meaning ways of behavior in situations of the same type);
6. behavioral manifestations of attitude towards oneself (to one's appearance, shortcomings, advantages, opportunities, personal belongings);
7. behavior in psychologically significant situations (task completion, conflict);
8. behavior in the main activity (work).

Factors that determine the complexity of knowing the internal through observation of the external are:

1. the ambiguity of connections between subjective psychic reality and its external manifestation;

There is the following classification of types of observation
(Fig. 4) .

From a chronological perspective of the organization observations

depending

From position

observer

By order

depending

from

regularity

Depending on activity

observer

Active

Random

Systematic

Systematic

selective

continuous

Random

Hidden

passive

open

Laboratory

Natural

Clinical

single

periodic

Longitudinal

Observation

Not included

Included

Included

Not included

Rice. 4. Classification of types of observation

Depending on the position of the observer:

1. open - observation, in which the observed are aware of their role as the object of research;
2. hidden - observation, which is not reported to the subjects, carried out unnoticed by them.

2. Depending on the activity of the observer:

1. passive – observation without any direction;
2. active - observation of specific phenomena, the absence of interference in the observed process;

1. laboratory (experimental)– observation in artificially created conditions. The degree of artificiality can be different: from the minimum in a casual conversation in a familiar environment to the maximum in an experiment using special rooms, technical means and coercive instructions. In medical practice, this type of observation is often referred to as clinical observation, i.e. monitoring the patient during his treatment;
2. natural (field)– observation of objects in their natural conditions Everyday life and activities.

3. Depending on the regularity:

1. random – observation not planned in advance, performed due to unexpected circumstances;

1. systematic– intentional observation carried out according to a premeditated plan and, as a rule, according to a predetermined schedule;
2. included - observation, in which the observer is a member of the group under study and studies it, as it were, from the inside;
3. unincluded – observation from the outside, without the interaction of the observer with the object of study. This type of observation, in fact, is an objective (external) observation.

4. By order:

1. random - observation not planned in advance, performed due to unexpected circumstances;
2. continuous – continuous observation of the object without interruption. It is usually used for short term studies or when it is necessary to obtain the most complete information about the dynamics of the phenomena under study;
3. selective – observation carried out at separate time intervals chosen by the researcher at his own discretion;
4. systematic- intentional observation, carried out according to a premeditated plan and, as a rule, according to a predetermined schedule.

5. From the point of view of the chronological organization of observation:

1. longitudinal – observation for a long time;
2. periodic – observation during certain intervals

kov time;

1. single – description of a particular case.

The observation method has its own characteristics (Fig. 5).

Features of the application of the observation method

The wealth of information collected (analysis of both verbal information and actions, movements, deeds)

Subjectivity (the results largely depend on the experience, scientific views, qualifications, interests, work capacity of the researcher)

Preservation of the naturalness of the conditions of activity

It is acceptable to use a variety of technical means

It is not necessary to obtain the prior consent of the subjects

Significant loss of time due to passivity of the observer

Inability to control the situation, intervene in the course of events without distorting them

Rice. 5. Features of the application of the observation method

The description of phenomena based on observation is scientific if the psychological understanding of the internal (subjective) side of the observed act contained in it gives a natural explanation of its external manifestation. The traditional way of recording data is the observation diary, which is a special record of the observer, reflecting the facts from the life of the observed person.

Requirements for recording data in the observation diary:

1. adequate transmission of the meaning of the observed phenomena;
2. accuracy and figurativeness of formulations;
3. a mandatory description of the situation (background, context) in which the observed behavior took place.

The method of observation is widely used in legal practice. For a psychologist and a lawyer, external observation is one of the main methods of studying not only a person's behavior, but also his character and mental characteristics. By external manifestations, the investigator judges the internal causes of a person’s behavior, his emotional state, difficulties in perceiving, for example, a witness to a crime event, the attitude towards the participants in the investigation, justice, etc. This method is used in legal practice and for educational purposes (for example, by an investigator during investigative actions). During a search, interrogation, investigative experiment, the investigator has the opportunity to purposefully observe the behavior of persons of interest to him, their emotional reactions, and, depending on this, change the tactics of his observation.

The development of the “behavioral portrait” method by legal psychologists and lawyers allows creating a more complete picture of a particular person who is being monitored (a person’s mental state, character traits, social status). A behavioral portrait helps investigators and operatives in identifying suspects, accused, witnesses and victims, in searching for and apprehending criminals in hiding.

Self-observation (introspection)- this is the observation of one's own internal mental processes, but at the same time, the observation of their external manifestations.

In legal practice, the testimonies of victims, witnesses are actually self-reports about their states and experiences. Self-observation can be used by a lawyer as a method of self-knowledge, allowing him to identify his characterological features, personality traits in order to better control his own behavior, neutralize in time, for example, the manifestation of unnecessary emotional reactions, outbursts of irritability in extreme conditions caused by neuropsychic overload. kami.

Experiment

Experiment is a method of collecting empirical data in specially planned and controlled conditions in which the experimenter influences the phenomenon under study and registers changes in its state . The following types of experiment are distinguished: laboratory, natural, ascertaining, forming (Fig. 6, Table 1).

Experiment

Natural

(carried out in real
living conditions)

Laboratory

(carried out under conditions
laboratories)

b

Experiment

Formative

(provides for the purposeful influence of the experimenter on the studied mental phenomenon)

stating

(limited to stating changes in the studied
mental phenomena)

Rice. 6. Classification of types of experiment:

but – depending on the conditions of the experiment;
b - depending on the position of the experimenter in the study

Psychic Phenomena

Table 1.

Features of the use of laboratory and natural experiment

Laboratory experiment	natural experiment
Ensures high accuracy of results	Relative accuracy of results
Repeated studies under similar conditions are possible	Repeated studies under similar conditions are excluded.
Almost complete control over all variables	Lack of full control over all variables
The conditions of the activities of the subjects do not correspond to reality	Operating conditions correspond to reality
Subjects are aware that they are the subjects of the study.	Subjects are unaware that they are subjects of research

A psychological experiment, unlike observation, involves the possibility of activeinterference of the researcher in the activity of the subject (Table 2) .

table 2

Comparative analysis of observation and experiment

Observation	Experiment
Depending on the nature of the questions
The question remains open. The observer does not know the answer or has a vague idea about it.	The question becomes a hypothesis; implies the existence of some relationship between the facts. The experiment aims to test the hypothesis
Depending on the control of the situation
Observation situations are defined less strictly than in experiment. Transitional steps from natural to provoked observation	The situation of the experiment is clearly defined
Depending on registration accuracy
The procedure for recording the actions of the subject is less strict than in the experiment	The exact procedure for recording the actions of the subject

In the practice of psychological and legal research, both laboratory and natural experiments have become widespread. The laboratory experiment is widespread mainly in scientific research, as well as in the conduct of forensic psychological examination. When conducting a laboratory experiment, complex laboratory equipment is used (multichannel oscilloscopes, tachistoscopes, etc.).

With the help of a laboratory experiment, in particular, such professional qualities of a lawyer as attention, observation, etc. are studied. The natural experiment is widely used by officials fighting crime, primarily investigators. However, its application should in no case go beyond the scope of criminal procedural norms. This refers to the conduct of investigative experiments, the purpose of which is to test certain psycho-physiological qualities of victims, witnesses and other persons. In difficult cases, it is recommended to invite a specialist psychologist to participate in them.

Conversation

Conversation - an auxiliary method of obtaining information based on verbal (verbal) communication. The researcher asks questions, and the subject answers them. The form of the conversation can be a free or standardized survey (Fig. 7).

Standardized Poll

Free Poll

Errors in the formulation of questions are excluded

The resulting data is harder to compare with each other

The data obtained are easily comparable with each other.

Bears the imprint of artificiality (reminiscent of an oral questionnaire)

Allows you to flexibly adjust the research tactics, the content of the questions asked, and receive non-standard answers to them

Rice. 7. Features of the use of standardized and free survey

Standardized Poll− a survey characterized by a predetermined set and order of questions.

Free survey in form approaches the usual conversation and is natural, informal. It is also conducted according to a certain plan, and the main questions are developed in advance, but during the course of the survey, the researcher can ask additional questions, as well as modify the wording of the planned questions. A survey of this type allows you to flexibly adjust the research tactics, the content of the questions asked, and receive non-standard answers to them.

In legal practice, this type of conversation can be used as an anamnesis (an anamnesis is information about the past of the subject, obtained from him or, with an objective anamnesis, from people who know him well).

A casual conversation allows the investigator to study the main personality traits of the interlocutor, develop an individual approach and make contact with the interrogated. Such a conversation very often precedes the main part of the interrogation and the achievement main goal- Obtaining objective and complete information about the crime event. During the conversation, the investigator should pay attention to establishing personal contact with the interlocutor. A climate favorable for conversation is created by:

1. clear, concise and meaningful introductory phrases and explanations;
2. showing respect for the personality of the interlocutor, attention to his opinion and interests;
3. positive remarks (any person has positive qualities);
4. a skillful manifestation of expression (tone, timbre of voice, intonation, facial expressions, etc.), which is designed to confirm a person’s conviction in what is being discussed, his interest in the issues raised.

A conversation between a psychologist of the department of internal organs and a victim as a result of a crime can and should cause a psychotherapeutic effect. Understanding the emotional states of another person, expressing sympathy for him, the ability to put yourself in his place, demonstrating sympathetic attention to the vital needs of a person is an important condition for contact with the interlocutor.

Conducting a conversation is a great art that both psychologists and lawyers must master. This method requires special flexibility and clarity, the ability to listen to the interlocutor, understand his emotional states, respond to their changes, fix the external manifestations of these states. In addition, the conversation helps the lawyer to demonstrate his positive qualities, the desire to objectively understand certain phenomena. The conversation is an important tool for establishing and maintaining psychological contact with witnesses, suspects, etc.

Questionnaire

Questionnaire - this is a collection of facts on the basis of a written self-report of the subject according to a specially compiled program. Questionnaire is a questionnaire with a pre-compiled system of questions, each of which is logically related to the central hypothesisresearch. The survey procedure includes three stages:

1 . Determination of the content of the questionnaire. This may be a list of questions about the facts of life, interests, motives, assessments, relationships.

2 . Choice of question type. Questions are divided into open, closed and semi-closed.Open questionsallow the subject to build a response in accordance with their desires, both in content and in form. Processing responses to open-ended questions is difficult, but they allow you to discover completely unexpected and unintended judgments.Closed questionsprovide for the choice of one or more answer options placed in the questionnaire. These kinds of responses are easily processed quantitatively.Semi-closed questionsinvolves the choice of one or more answers from a number of proposed ones, at the same time, the subject is given the opportunity to independently formulate an answer to the question. The type of question can affect the completeness and sincerity of the answer.

3. Determine the number and order of questions to be asked.

When compiling the questionnaire, you should adhere to a number of general rules and principles:

1. the wording of questions should be clear and precise, their content understandable to the respondent, consistent with his knowledge and education;
2. complex and polysemantic words should be excluded;
3. there should not be too many questions, as interest is lost due to increasing fatigue;

1. include questions that test the degree of sincerity.

The method of questioning is widely used in the study of the professiogram of officials, their professional suitability and professional deformation. Currently, this method is widely used to study some aspects of the causes of crime (for example, the mechanism of formation of criminal intent, etc.).

Test method

Testing is the collection of facts about psychic reality using standardized tools - tests.

Test - a method of psychological measurement, consisting of a series of brief tasks and aimed at diagnosing the individual severity of personality traits and states . With the help of tests, you can study and compare the psychological characteristics of different people, give differentiated and comparable assessments.

Depending on the area to be diagnosed, there are intellectual tests; achievement and special ability tests; personality tests; tests of interests, attitudes, tests diagnosing interpersonal relationships, etc. Exists a large number of tests aimed at assessing personality, abilities and behavioral characteristics.

There are the following types of tests:

1. test questionnaire - is based on a system of preconceived, carefully

carefully selected and tested for validity and reliability

questions, the answers to which can be used to judge the level of severity of personality traits;

1. test task - includes a series of special tasks, following the results

the implementation of which is judged on the presence (absence) and the level of severity of the studied properties;

1. projective test- it contains a projection mechanism, according to

to which a person tends to attribute unconscious self-qualities to the unstructured stimulus material of the test, such as inkblots. In various manifestations of a person, whether it be creativity, interpretation of events, statements, etc., his personality is embodied, including hidden, unconscious impulses, aspirations, experiences, conflicts. Test material can be interpreted in a variety of ways, where the main thing is not its objective content, but the subjective meaning, the attitude that it causes in a person. It should be remembered that projective tests impose increased requirements on the level of education, intellectual maturity of the individual, and also require high professionalism on the part of the researcher.

The development and use of any tests must meet the following basic requirements:

1. standardization, consisting in the creation of a uniform procedure for conducting and evaluating the performance of test tasks (linear or non-linear transformation of test scores, the meaning of which is to replace the original scores with new, derivative ones that make it easier to understand the test results, using the methods of mathematical statistics);
2. reliability, meaning the consistency of the indicators obtained from the same subjects during repeated testing (retest) using the same test or its equivalent form;
3. validity (adequacy) - the extent to which the test measures exactly what it is intended for;
4. practicality, those. economy, simplicity, efficiency of use and practical value for many different situations (subjects) and activities.

The features of the test include poor predictability, “attachment” of the results to a specific testing situation, the attitude of the subject to the procedure and the researcher, the dependence of the results on the state of the person being studied (fatigue, stress, irritability, etc.).

The results of the test, as a rule, give only an actual cut of the quality being measured, while most of the characteristics of personality and behavior are capable of changing dynamically. Thus, testing a person accused of a crime (being in a pre-trial detention center), when solving the problems of a forensic psychological examination, can give an incorrect, distorted idea of ​​\u200b\u200bthe personality in connection with a state of anxiety, possible depression, despair, anger, etc.

The use of tests by specialists implies that they comply with a number of procedural requirements, which a lawyer should be aware of when evaluating the test results set forth in the act of forensic psychological examination. Testing should be carried out in favorable conditions for the subject in terms of time, the situation of the examination, his well-being, the attitude of the psychologist towards him, professionally competently setting tasks for him and conducting the examination.

Deviations from these mandatory requirements may indicate insufficient scientific competence of a specialist psychologist and adversely affect the assessment of his conclusion by the court.

Method of expert assessments

Method of expert assessmentsconsists in conducting by experts an intuitive-logical analysis of the problem with a quantitatively justified judgment and formal processing of the results.

One of the most important points in using this method is the choice of experts. Experts can be persons who know the subject well and the problem being studied: a juvenile inspector, parents, friends, etc. An expert assessment is displayed as a quantitative assessment of the severity of the studied properties. The researcher summarizes and analyzes the assessments of experts.

In legal practice, this method allows you to collect as much independent information as possible about the personality of the accused in order to form an objective opinion about him. So, for example, in order to fully characterize the accused, one characteristic with his last place work is not enough. Therefore, it is very important for the investigation to consider the characteristics from the places where the accused studied or worked, the opinion of neighbors, work colleagues, relatives and acquaintances about him.

Method of analysis of the process and products of activity

This method involves the study of the materialized results of a person's mental activity, the material products of his previous activity. In the products of activity, a person’s attitude to the activity itself, to the world around is manifested, the level of development of intellectual, sensory, motor skills is reflected. This method is most often used as an auxiliary one, since on its basis it is not always possible to reveal the whole variety of human mental activity. In legal practice, the method of analyzing the process and products of activity, in conjunction with other methods, is used to study the identity of wanted criminals. So, according to the results of criminal activity, they judge not only the degree of social danger of the deed, but also certain characterological features of the individual, the mental state of the accused at the time of the crime, the motives for the crime, intellectual abilities, etc.

biographical method

biographical method− it is a way of research and design life path personality, based on the study of documents of her biography ( personal diaries, correspondence, etc.). The biographical method involves the use of the content analysis method as a method of quantitative and qualitative processing of documentation.

In legal practice, the purpose of this method is to collect information about facts and events of psychological significance in a person's life, from the moment of birth to the period that interests the investigator and the court. During the interrogation of witnesses who know the subject well, and during a conversation with him, the investigator himself finds out the information necessary for the investigation: about his parents, about his relationship with others, work, interests, inclinations, character, past illnesses, injuries. In necessary cases, various medical documents, personal files, diaries, letters, etc. are studied.

For future lawyers, teachers of law, the study and application of the methods of scientific psychology is of great practical value. They are essential in working with adolescents, social groups, personnel; in addition, they help to build professional, business and everyday interpersonal relationships correctly, and are also designed to help in self-knowledge in order to rationally approach one's own destiny and personal growth.

Method is more important than discovery

because the correct method of research

will lead to new, even more valuable discoveries

L.L. Landau

Psychology is science and practice. The methods of psychology, originally developed in scientific research, are then transferred to a practicing psychologist, and serve the purposes of diagnostics, development and correction, psychoprophylaxis, etc.

Scientific research methods - these are the methods and means by which scientists obtain reliable information that is used further to build scientific theories and develop practical recommendations.

Method – a way, a way of cognition of modern science.

Method - this is a way to achieve some goal, the solution of a specific problem, a set of techniques or operations, practical or theoretical development of reality.

Basic Methods getting facts in psychology:

observation

experiment.

Helper Methods :

a conversation,

a survey,

tests,

self-observation

· analysis of products of creative activity,

· sociometry and others.

Observation - the study of certain characteristics of a particular process, with the aim of identifying its invariant features, without active inclusion in the process itself.

Observation -purposeful and systematic perception of phenomena, the results of which are recorded by the observer.

A feature of scientific observation, in contrast to simple, everyday, is its premeditation, purposefulness (carried out in accordance with a pre-set goal), selectivity (certain features of behavior and activity are observed), planned (carried out in accordance with a certain plan) and systematic.

Surveillance -ancient method of knowledge. Its primitive form - worldly observations - is used by every person in his daily practice.

There are the following types of observation :

-cut(short-term observation),

- longitudinal (long, sometimes for a number of years),

Continuous (carried out behind all mental processes, properties and qualities of a given person),

- selective(observation of one mental process, property or state),

- includedobservation (when the observer becomes a member of the study group),

-external(observation from outside)

-internal(introspection),

- free(does not have a pre-established framework, program, procedure for its implementation. It can change the subject or object of observation, its nature during the observation itself, depending on the wishes of the observer),

- standardized (predetermined and clearly limited in terms of what is observed, conducted according to a specific, pre-thought-out program)

- third party(does not imply the personal participation of the observer in the process that he is studying).

The observation procedure consists of the following processes:

1) definition of the task and purpose (for what, for what purpose?);

2) choice of object, subject and situation (what to observe?);

3) the choice of the method of observation that has the least effect on the object under study and most ensures the collection of the necessary information (how to observe?);

4) the choice of methods for recording the observed (how to keep records?);

5) processing and interpretation of the received information (what is the result?).

«+»: availability, low cost of funds; does not distort the natural course of the psyche. processes; wealth of information collected.

«-»: large expenditures of time, the impossibility of repeated observation of identical factors, the difficulty of establishing the cause of the phenomenon, the difficulty of statistical processing.

Sometimes observation is an integral part of two other methods - conversation and experiment.

Experiment - active intervention of the researcher in the activity of the subject in order to create conditions in which a psychological fact is revealed.

Types of experiments:

1.Laboratory E. , it takes place in special conditions, special equipment is used, the actions of the subject are determined by the instructions, the subject knows that an experiment is being carried out, although he may not know the true meaning of the experiment until the end.

«+»: An experiment (laboratory) can be repeated many times.

«-» - the subject does not behave naturally enough, some artificiality E ..

This method has been used since the world's first psychological laboratory was opened in Germany in 1879. (Wilhelm Wundt) . Previously, only the method was used introspection(self-observation).

2. Natural E. , (In 1911, a Russian scientist Lazursky Alexander Fedorovich proposed a method of psychological study of personality in the usual conditions of its activity) - Natural E. This type of experiment is widely used in social, educational psychology, and in the psychology of management. Natural E. are carried out in natural conditions of life, study, work of people, people do not suspect that an experiment is being carried out on them (but its results must be recorded, for example, with a hidden camera). Natural experiments make it possible to reveal more reliable information, but they cannot be carried out repeatedly, since they lose their naturalness and secrecy from the subjects.

3. Psychological and pedagogical E. - the essence of the experiment is that here the study of the child is carried out directly in the process of his education and upbringing, in the process of the active formation of those mental characteristics that are the subject of study.

Psychological and pedagogical E. often consists of 3:

1. ascertaining : aimed at establishing both the actual state and the level of certain features mental development by the time of E. Carrying out diagnostics.

2. formative : active formation of the studied property (according to the hypothesis) in the process of specially organized experimental training and education.

3. control : verification of the effectiveness of the work carried out, analysis and comparison of the results. The same diagnostics are used as in the ascertaining E.

Helper methods:

Conversation - direct or indirect, oral or written receipt from the studied information about his activities, in which psychological phenomena characteristic of him are visible (collection of facts about mental phenomena).

Types of conversations:

Standardized - consists of pre-formulated questions that are asked in a strictly defined order.

free- the experimenter has only a general plan of the interview and formulates the questions himself, determining their order depending on how the conversation develops.

Different types of questions are used to obtain reliable data in a conversation:

Indirect (“What do you usually do in your free time?”)

Projective (“If you were told that within the next 2 hours you can do whatever you want. What would you do?”)

Conversation requirements:

1).ease

2). you can not turn a conversation into a survey

3). establishing personal contact between the researcher and the person being examined (creating a friendly environment)

4). carefully think over the conversation (present it in the form of a specific plan, tasks)

The psychologist has an active role in organizing and conducting the conversation, he must ensure that everyone answers the questions posed as fully and clearly as possible.

The material that the psychologist receives as a result needs the most rigorous critical analysis.

Questionnaire - a method of collecting facts on the basis of a written self-report of the subjects according to specially compiled programs. When using this method, a clear definition of the content of questions and their correct wording, detailed instructions on the procedure for filling out the questionnaire, careful quantitative and qualitative processing of the received material, and the correct use of static methods for processing materials are of great importance.

«+» in the fact that here it is possible to obtain a large volume of material, the reliability of which is determined by the "law of large numbers."

«-» in what usually happens, a qualitative analysis of the data is difficult and the possibility of correlating the answers with the actual activity and behavior of the subjects is excluded.

Test - a short-term task, the same for all subjects, the results of which determine the presence and level of development of various human qualities.

Tests are designed to establish the presence or absence of already known psychological characteristics in certain subjects.

Tests:

Always standardized tests (determines the extent to which the test subject corresponds to a known standard, objectively compares different test subjects with each other).

Provides all subjects with the same opportunities for the manifestation of their psychological characteristics.

When starting to interpret, it should be remembered that tests, as a rule, are one-time tests, that they allow you to make a cut, fix what is in this moment. Based on the results of the test, it is impossible to make predictions, to predict the possibility, the degree of success of consistent mental development. It is possible to obtain an exact quantitative or qualitative characteristic of the phenomenon under study: mathematical data processing.

Method of sociometric research – study of interpersonal relations in a group in order to determine the structure of relationships and psychological compatibility(developed by an American psychologist Moreno , revised by Ya.L. Kolomensky and adapted to children preschool age T.A. Repina, having received the name "Game secret"). This technique is used to study the child's personal status in the system of interpersonal relationships in a group of peers.

Children are asked a series of questions, such as "Who would you like to play with?", "Who would you invite to your birthday party?" etc. or offer to make a “choice in action”, i.e. secretly give some thing (pictures, toys, etc.) to the child from the group to whom they want. The children's answers are drawn up in a special table - a sociogram. It shows those children who are most or least popular, as well as the reciprocity of the choices, but does not reveal the reasons for likes or dislikes. The following categories are identified: "stars"-leaders, popular, outcasts.

Psychological analysis of products of creative activity - allows you to reveal such psychological characteristics of people as their skills and abilities, their attitude to work, sometimes the level of ability and amount of knowledge.

It is very important to study not only the products of activity, but also the manufacturing process, because. in the process of activity, the mental characteristics of a person manifest themselves more clearly.

The products of activity include: children's compositions, drawings, drawings, various items made in the labor lesson, etc.

Not all of them are of equal value to the researcher. Those tasks that a child performs on the direct instructions of an adult are of no particular value. Valuable work on purpose. Of great importance in understanding the inner world of the child are drawings by design. They reflect the peculiarity of the perception and experience of the inner world of the child. Drawings make it possible in some way to judge the mental development of the child. The color scheme that the child uses in drawing gives us reason to judge his attitude towards the character being depicted (for example, the child draws negative characters with dark colors and extremely carelessly: they are not worth trying to draw them). An analysis of other productive activities indicates the level of formation or unformedness of the child's skills and abilities.

OUTPUT:Only the complex use of various research methods can give a complete, objective idea of ​​the child's mental characteristics. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, therefore, in order to fully understand the mental development of the child, they must be used in close mutual contact. Only in this case it is possible to obtain a complete and objective assessment of the development of the individual.