Psychology

This guide provides an introduction to the psychology research process for Xavierites from identifying a research question to finding sources and writing your literature review. It is our goal to help you find, access, and use the resources that are appropriate for your needs. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to the library. We are here to help! 

Need an idea of what you're working towards? Check out this example research presentation.

Want to go straight to a psychology database? Check out PsycInfo.

Setting Expectations

Completing the entire research process takes a commitment of time and effort. There are no shortcuts in research, and while some may find it tedious, it is also highly rewarding. Don't expect to complete the whole process in one go. Budget time for each step of the process and come back for guidance as you go throughout the semester. 

Use the links for pro tips and instructions on each step of the research process:

1. Identify a Research Need: This page takes you through the process of brainstorming ideas and conducting background research to identify a gap your research can fill.
2. Formulate a Research Question: This page guides you to an effective research question that makes the writing process easier. 
3. Review the Literature: This page outlines how to search for and evaluate sources, then synthesize them into a literature review. 
4. Find Tests and Measures: This page helps you track down the actual questionnaires and surveys to conduct your research.
5. Conduct the Experiment: This is the part you do in your class using the SONA System platform. There isn't a page on this step, but it is here to show the complete research process.
6. Report Your Results: This page is for assistance publishing your research.   

Additional Resources for the Research Process

In the Research Methods and Advanced Research course sequence, you will be designing and conducting your own research experiment here at Xavier. Check out this example presentation by Gabriella Wicker to get the big picture of what you're working towards.