Step 1: Think Like a Scientist

Here are 10 questions that will help you to be skeptical about research findings. Ask yourself these questions when you hear or read about psychological research:

• What is the source? For example, are the findings in a scientific publication, in the popular media (e.g., television, magazines, Internet), or presented as part of cultural traditions or stereotypes? (Scientific publications are the best source for research findings about mental processes and behavior.)

• Is the evidence based on testimonials (personal accounts) or research involving large samples? (Testimonials are not scientific.)

• Are the results coincidental-could they be due to unusual, chance events?

• Do the researchers encourage more controlled investigations? (Beware of those who dismiss the need for more research.)

• Are the findings based on more than one study? Is the research evidence accumulating for the phenomenon?

• Are there conflicting findings, or are conflicting findings ignored?

• Is the research controlled or scientific? (Beware of those who say that the findings disappear when controlled studies are conducted.)

• Have the findings been verified with independent observers?

• Do explanations for findings appeal to forces outside the realm of science?

• Are causal explanations for a phenomenon offered, even when controlled research hasn't been conducted?