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descriptive statistics

procedures for depicting the main aspects of sample data, without necessarily inferring to a larger population. Descriptive statistics usually include the mean, median, and mode to indicate central tendency, as well as the range and standard deviation that reveal how widely spread the scores are within the sample. Descriptive statistics could also include charts and graphs such as a frequency distribution or histogram, among others. Compare inferential statistics.

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Psychology term of the day

February 22nd 2025

imaging

imaging

n.

1. the process of scanning the brain or other organs or tissues to obtain an optical image that can be used for medical and research purposes, such as locating abnormalities or studying anatomy and function. Techniques used include computed tomography, positron emission tomography (PET), anatomical magnetic resonance imaging (aMRI), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The imaging may be either static or dynamic. See also brain imaging; nuclear imaging.

2. in therapy, the use of suggested mental images to control body function, including the easing of pain. See also imagery technique; visualization.