random sampling

a process for selecting a sample of study participants from a larger potential group of eligible individuals, such that each person has the same fixed probability of being included in the sample and some chance procedure is used to determine who specifically is chosen. A group selected in this way is known as a random sample. The main value of this form of probability sampling is its positive impact on generalizability and external validity.

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Psychology term of the day

December 23rd 2024

criminal commitment

the confinement of people in mental institutions either because they have been found not guilty by reason of insanity or to establish their competency to stand trial as responsible defendants.