Professor Peterson’s Psychology Classroom

16 Episodes

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Behind the Numbers: Hypotheses, Errors, and What Statistics Really Tell Us

2026-09-2550:27

This episode introduces core quantitative methods in psychology: descriptive vs. experimental approaches, independent and dependent variables, null and alternative hypotheses, and Type I/II errors. It explains key statistical concepts—normal distribution and standard deviation, correlation and linear regression, mediation and moderation—and clarifies p-values, effect sizes, and the replication problem using examples like study time vs. grades and social support moderating stress and depression. Takeaway: look beyond statistical significance—check sample details, effect sizes, and replication before assuming findings apply universally.

Unlocking Stats: From Questions to Conclusions

2026-09-2530:01

Dr. Curtis Peterson introduces the role of statistics in scientific and applied settings, explains the scientific method and hypothesis types, and contrasts descriptive (correlation, regression) with experimental (ANOVA, t-test) approaches. He also covers qualitative and mixed methods, factor analysis briefly, and practical examples of using surveys and interviews in organizational consulting.

From Means to Methods: A Beginner's Guide to Statistical Analysis

2026-09-2517:38

Professor Peterson reviews measures of central tendency and variation, then walks through the scientific method and how hypotheses guide data analysis. He explains quantitative versus qualitative approaches and the role of mixed methods. The episode introduces correlation and regression, contrasts descriptive associations with experimental causation, and summarizes common tests (t-tests, ANOVA) plus considerations about variable types, Likert scales, and nonparametric methods for categorical data.

Inside Psychology Research: From Clinic to Lab

2026-09-2525:10

This episode explains how psychologists design and carry out research: starting with a research question, reviewing literature, forming hypotheses, and using clinical and experimental methods to test treatments and measure outcomes. It uses a moral identity study (activation vs. control) to show independent/dependent variables, mixed qualitative/quantitative approaches, and the difference between descriptive, correlational, regression, and experimental designs—emphasizing that correlation does not prove causation.

Fight-or-Flight Unpacked: How Your Nervous System Runs the Show

2026-09-2427:38

Professor Peterson explains the nervous system as a whole—central vs peripheral, and somatic vs autonomic branches—highlighting how the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems regulate arousal and stress responses. The episode shows how acute and chronic stress affect the body and brain, with everyday examples (couples’ conflicts, health effects, and temperament) and practical implications for therapy and safety planning.

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Professor Peterson’s Psychology Classroom