The Scientific Method

Never have there been debates over whether or not physics, chemistry, or biology classify as sciences. It is clear both to those who study them and those who do not that these practices embody science. One way that a disciple is classified as a science is through its use of the scientific method. The scientific method is a series of steps that aim at proving or disproving a hypothesis. This begins with observation and questions, moves to surveys and replicable experiments, and ends in a conclusion that either answers the original questions or begs for further research (Breedlove, 2015). Because this is a crucial element of science, many think that it effectively excludes psychology from the list of sciences. However, upon this basis, I believe

For example, S. Marc Breedlove uses the practices of psychologists in order to define the scientific method in his textbook, Principles of Psychology (2015). He begins by noting that psychologists observe behavior first and foremost (p. 31). From there, just like physicists, chemists, or biologists, they create a testable hypothesis and design an experiment with independent and dependent variables, and experimental and control groups (p. 37-39). This attention and care is crucial to research because it insures that the causal density will be as low as possible, although it can never be truly eliminated and will most often be higher in psychology than in other sciences. Finally, in stride with other scientists, psychologists review and publish their findings so that others can continue the experiments. With these practices in mind, psychologists are continually moving toward an more research and science-based system. Dr. W. David Tilly, who focuses on ways to innovate education, writes that “training of clinical psychologists should include an equal emphasis on both research and practice” (2008). He recognizes the great scientific advancements that psychologists have made and implores that these methods be brought to schools and counselors. In doing this, not only is psychology viewed as a clear science, but it also applies its findings to everyday