Psychological Research Methods
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In the field of Psychological Research Methods we deal with the development and adaptation of new assessment procedures, the statistical and mathematical modeling of psychological processes, the design of studies, as well as the analysis and interpretation of empirical-psychological data. In short, we develop the “tools” for describing, explaining, predicting, and possibly modifying, human experience and behavior. Research and teaching in the field of Psychological Research Methods is characterized by working at the intersection between general mathematics/statistics and the various basic and applied subjects in psychology. Often new discoveries in psychology are only made possible, or are at least catalyzed by, new methodological developments. Thus, the subject not only plays a central role in the education of the next generation of psychologists, but offers ample opportunities for collaboration between the various fields in the life-/social sciences and beyond.
Integrating research on methodological as well as substantive topics, along with a close collaboration with other, national and international, researchers are core characteristics of work in our group. The primary focus of our research lies on two main topics: On the one hand, the development and adaptation of new quantitative methods and theoretical concepts, for example for the analysis of longitudinal data or the integration of idiographic and differential research. On the other hand, the study of developmental dynamics in affective and cognitive functioning.