Question

which statement about psychological research is true?
external validity is critical to generalizing findings.
experiments are meant to be smaller versions of the real world.
without random sampling, researchers cannot come to valid conclusions.
most psychological research involves nonrandom samples.

Explanation:

• Analyze each option:
• Option 1: External validity refers to how well research findings can be generalized to other settings, populations, etc. So it is critical for generalizing findings. This is a key concept in psychological research methodology.
• Option 2: Experiments are not meant to be smaller versions of the real world; they often manipulate variables in controlled settings, which may not fully represent the real world.
• Option 3: While random sampling is useful, researchers can still come to valid conclusions with non - random sampling (e.g., in case studies, convenience sampling with appropriate interpretation).
• Option 4: Most psychological research does not involve non - random samples. Random sampling is preferred when generalizability is a goal, and many studies aim for that.

Answer:

A. External validity is critical to generalizing findings.