binary trial

a single experiment in which there are only two possible outcomes. For example, consider a behavioral researcher observing aggression in a group of schoolchildren during recess. If he or she makes a record every 1 minute, then each such period may be considered a binary trial, with aggression present or aggression absent as its only two possible outcomes.

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Psychology term of the day

January 30th 2025

realistic group conflict theory

a conceptual framework predicated on the assumption that intergroup tensions will occur whenever social groups must compete for scarce resources (e.g., food, territory, jobs, wealth, power, natural resources) and that this competition fuels prejudice and other antagonistic attitudes that lead to conflicts such as rivalries and warfare. Also called realistic conflict theory.