What are the functions and characteristics of a good theory?
What will be an ideal response?
Good theories are able to incorporate many existing facts, observations, and relationships within a single, broad explanatory framework. Additional hypotheses may lead to new observations. In this way, theories provide a foundation on which to build knowledge. If new observations do not support the theory, it can be modified or discarded. However, it will still have served a valuable function by leading to the discovery of new knowledge and to the development of an even better and more inclusive theory. In order for a theory to be useful it must be capable of being tested and refuted. It should be able to specify the types of relationships that are not possible as well as those that are.
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IQ tests _____.
A. reflect mutlticultural understanding B. are influenced by culture C. do not accurately reflect aptitude D. accurately reflect achievement
_______________, introduced by well-known psychologist Albert Bandura, refers to our beliefs about our abilities, and thus our expectations regarding success at a task or effectiveness in an area of life
a) Self-concept b) Self-determination c) Self-efficacy d) Self-appraisal