PSY 327: Abnormal Psychology

An empirical research article reports the results of a study that used data derived from actual observation or experimentation. Empirical research articles are examples of primary research.

Parts of a standard empirical research article: (articles will not necessary use the exact terms listed below.)

• Abstract: A paragraph-length description of what the study includes.
• Introduction: Includes a statement of the hypotheses for the research and a review of other research on the topic.
• Method: A description of how the research was conducted, such as:
  • Human subjects or research participants
  • Study design
  • What the participants did
  • What measures were used
• Results: Describes the outcomes of the measures of the study.
• Discussion: Contains the interpretations and implications of the study.
• References: Contains citation information on the material cited in the report. (also called bibliography or works cited)

Characteristics of an Empirical Article:

• Empirical articles will present observed data through charts, graphs, or statistical analysis.
• Empirical research articles are usually substantial, maybe from 8-30 pages long.
• There is always a bibliography found at the end of the article.

Type of publications that publish empirical studies:

• Empirical research articles are published in scholarly or academic journals
• These journals are also called “peer-reviewed,” or “refereed” publications.