Control versus realism
What Control versus realism means in Psychology A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Control versus realism
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Control versus realism in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A central trade-off in which a laboratory study increases internal validity but risks low mundane realism, while a naturalistic observation increases ecological validity but sacrifices control.
Topics that use Control versus realism
- Research methods (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Closed questions
- co-variables
- Coding
- content analysis
- Correlation coefficients and their sign
- Covert observation
- field experiment
- inter-rater reliability
Using Control versus realism in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Psychology questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge