What is called when a selection from a larger group accurately reflects the total population?

A representative sample refers to a subset of a population that accurately reflects the characteristics of the entire group. This method of sampling is crucial in research because it ensures that findings can be generalized to the larger population with a higher degree of confidence.

When conducting studies, researchers strive for a representative sample to avoid biases that can distort the results. This means that the sample includes individuals from various demographic backgrounds, traits, or experiences that match the overall population. When a sample is representative, it helps researchers draw valid conclusions and make more reliable predictions based on the data collected.

In contrast, a single-blind study primarily deals with minimizing bias in research by concealing certain information from participants to prevent their views from influencing the outcome. Self-report bias refers to the systematic distortion that can arise when participants in a study provide inaccurate responses based on personal perceptions or desires, rather than providing factual insights about their behaviors or experiences. A skewed distribution describes a scenario where data is not symmetrically distributed but rather leans towards one end of the spectrum, which can lead to misinterpretations of the data collected.

Understanding the concept of a representative sample is vital for anyone involved in psychological research because it underpins the validity and reliability of research findings.