A Researcher Creates a Machine That Will Measure the Total

question 29

Multiple Choice

A researcher creates a machine that will measure the total electrical activity in a human brain over a short period of time. She claims that this measures the happiness of the brain's owner. A psychologist says that's not true because the amount of electrical activity isn't related to "the emotional state of well-being" usually called happiness. The psychologist is claiming that electrical activity as a measure of happiness is:

• A) invalid.
• B) biased.
• C) not reliable.
• D) not precise.

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Definitions:

Thought

The mental process of considering, reasoning, or remembering; encompasses all aspects of conscious intellect and reflection.

Social Psychologists

Social psychologists study how people's thoughts, feelings, beliefs, intentions, and goals are constructed within a social context by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others.

Configural Model

A model that suggests that elements are perceived and processed holistically rather than as a simple sum of their parts.

First Impressions

Initial judgments or assessments made upon encountering someone or something for the first time, which can be lasting and influential.