Research Proposal Guidelines
For this assignment, students will write a narrative of their research proposal centering on a study that they would be interested in conducting. As PSY 235 is designated as a writing intensive class for the Psychology department,the research proposal should be at least 15 pages (inclusive of all sections).
Requirements
• Research question must be either an association claim (correlational hypothesis) or causal claim (causation hypothesis) (see Chapter 3 for types of claims). Thus, your study must have at least two (2) variables.
o See Chapters 8 – 9 for more information on correlational research
o See Chapters 10, 12, 13 for more information on experiments that test
causation
• Must propose at least two (2) hypotheses
o One of the hypotheses must be either a mediation hypothesis (Chapter 9) OR a moderation hypothesis (Chapter 8, Chapter 12)
• At least five (5) peer-reviewed empirical articles (published from 2012 onward) must be used in the introduction’s literature review and annotated bibliography
NOTE: You can cite other studies (e.g., review articles), but if you have less than 5 peer-reviewed empirical articles, you will have points deducted
Necessary Sections:
Title Page
Abstract
The abstract is a summary of your research proposal. Information about your main research question and hypotheses, the method you intend to use, expected results, and why your study is important (i.e., the implications of your results) should appear here. The abstract should be the last thing you write.
Introduction
This section is a literature review of your topic where you will introduce the relevant background to your research question. The bulk of your citations will be found here. A well-written introduction reads like a funnel: begin broad, narrowing to your specific research interest. The literature review will include a synthesis of prior psychological research and theory meant to support your research topic. You should also include your specific research question(s) and hypotheses here.
Method
This section contains who will be in your study and how it will be conducted. This section lays down the groundwork such that if someone reads it, they will be able to replicate your study. This section usually includes the following subsections:
• Participants / Subjects: Describe the number and type of people (participants) or animals (subjects) that you will be using in your study. Include how you will recruit these individuals
• Materials: Describe the measures/tests you will be using and also any manipulations you’ll be making if you’re conducting an experiment. Include sample items for your surveys. You must include at least 3 scales that will be used in your study if you’re conducting a survey or 2 scales and description of your experimental manipulations/stimuli if you’re conducting an experiment. Please see the template for an example.
• Procedure: Describe how you will conduct the study in its exact order.
Results
This section will contain information about your method for data analysis. If you are conducting a correlational study, you will talk about how you will conduct bivariate and/or multivariate analyses. If you’re conducting an experiment, you’ll give information about how you’ll analyze group differences.
Discussion
For the purposes of this proposal, you will address one theoretical implication, one practical implication of your anticipated results and a future research direction.
References
You will be required to provide the full APA citation for every in-text citation within the proposal
Source #1:
Citation:
Gleason, M. M., Goldson, E., Yogman, M. W., Lieser, D., DelConte, B., Donoghue, E., … & COMMITTEE ON PSYCHOSOCIAL ASPECTS OF CHILD AND FAMILY HEALTH. (2016). Addressing early childhood emotional and behavioral problems. Pediatrics, 138(6).
https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/138/6/e20163025/52675/Addressing-Early-Childho
Summary:
This article talks about the early childhood emotional and behavioral problems that often involve issues like anxiety, aggression, or difficulties in managing emotions and behaviors. These problems can arise from a variety of factors including genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and interactions with caregivers. Early intervention and consistent support from parents, educators, and health professionals are crucial in helping children develop healthy emotional and behavioral skills. Addressing these issues early on can lead to better outcomes in a child’s social, academic, and personal development.
Source #2:
Citation;
Lang, K., & Zagorsky, J. L. (2001). Does Growing up with a Parent Absent Really Hurt? The Journal of Human Resources, 36(2), 253–273.
https://doi.org/10.2307/3069659
Summary:
This article discusses the impact of growing up with an absent parent and highlights several key effects on children and adolescents. The absence of a parent can lead to emotional distress, such as feelings of abandonment, sadness, and insecurity. It might also impact a child’s social and cognitive development, leading to challenges in school and in forming relationships. The article emphasizes the importance of supportive relationships with other adults, such as the remaining parent, relatives, or mentors, which can mitigate some of the negative effects.
Source #3:
Citation:
McCord, J., McCord, W., & Thurber, E. (1962). Some effects of paternal absence on male children. The Journal of Abnormal and Social Psychology, 64(5), 361–369. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0045305
Summary:
This article discusses the effects of paternal absence on male children and focuses on several significant impacts. The research in this article suggests that the absence of a father figure can lead to various challenges for boys. These challenges may include a higher likelihood of behavioral problems, lower academic achievement, and difficulties in developing healthy relationships with peers and authority figures. The absence of a father’s guidance and support can also affect a boy’s self-esteem and overall emotional well-being. However, it’s important to note that every individual and family situation is unique, and the effects of paternal absence can vary. Supportive relationships with other caring adults and access to resources like counseling can play an important role in helping boys navigate these challenges and thrive.
Source #4:
Citation:
Blechman, E. A. (1982). Are Children with One Parent at Psychological Risk? A Methodological Review. Journal of Marriage and Family, 44(1), 179–195.
https://doi.org/10.2307/351272
Summary:
This article discusses the psychological risks for children raised by a single parent and points out several potential challenges. These children might experience more stress due to financial constraints or reduced parental attention, as one parent may need to balance more responsibilities alone. This can lead to feelings of isolation or neglect, which might impact their emotional and psychological development. However, the article also emphasizes the resilience of many children in single-parent families. They often develop strong bonds with their parents and other family members, which can help mitigate psychological risks.
Source #5:
Citation:
Hetherington, E. M. (1981). Cognitive performance, school behavior, and achievement of children from one-parent households.
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED221780.pdf
Summary:
This article focuses on the cognitive performance, school behavior, and achievements of children from single-parent households showing a nuanced view. While some studies suggest that these children might face more challenges academically due to factors like less parental supervision and economic constraints, this research points to variability based on individual circumstances. The article discusses how supportive environments, such as quality schooling, community programs, and the active involvement of the parent, can significantly influence positive outcomes.
