What is the scientific method?

The scientific method is fundamentally a systematic approach to testing hypotheses. This method involves several key steps: formulating a question based on observations, conducting background research, constructing a hypothesis, designing and conducting experiments to test that hypothesis, analyzing the data collected, and drawing conclusions to determine whether the hypothesis is supported or refuted.

This systematic approach ensures that findings are reliable and can be reproduced by other researchers, contributing to the overall body of scientific knowledge. By emphasizing the importance of empirical evidence and structured investigation, the scientific method distinguishes itself from more anecdotal or unstructured methods of inquiry.

While making predictions is an aspect of scientific research, as well as philosophical discussions around human behavior, these are not the core definition of the scientific method itself. It is the rigorous testing and validation of hypotheses that truly encapsulates the purpose and function of the scientific method in psychology and other sciences.