Find over 25,000 psychological definitions


efficacy research

an empirical study, such as a randomized clinical trial, that examines whether a specific treatment or approach works when compared to outcomes in a placebo control group. Efficacy research is sometimes contrasted with effectiveness research, which uses naturalistic observation to assess whether an approach or treatment is working.

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

precompetition anxiety

precompetition anxiety

increased cognitive and physiological arousal before a competition. Precompetition anxiety may facilitate or inhibit performance, depending on the performer’s perception of readiness or apprehension. See debilitative anxiety; facilitative anxiety.