Name: Dylan Hair Period: 3 Date: September 11, 2023

HANDOUT 4-11
Writing Operational Definitions
Directions: Come up with appropriate operational definitions for the highlighted word or
phrase in each of the following descriptions. Keep in mind that an operational definition is
one that makes it clear how the researcher should go about measuring the process, activity,
behavior, or emotion.

1. The experimenter wants to figure out how different jokes affect a person's sense of
humor. More laughing, more smiling

2. The teacher wants to find a way to help make Billy act more friendly toward the other
children. More friendly speaking (complementing), nice to them, more smiling, helps
them with questions

3. A psychologist wants to know if his new form of psychotherapy will make people less
depressed.

4. People dream more if they have eaten a big meal three hours before going to sleep. Measurement of dreams, REM
sleep patterns

5. College athletes are not as smart as regular students.

6. Overall, senior girls are prettier than junior girls. Beautiful, nice, more symmetry in the facial features

7. People who make over $300,000 a year tend to be snobs.

8. The school spirit is at an all-time low. Wearing school colors, attending more events, cheering loudly at pep
rallies

9. The Rolling Stones are the best rock group ever.

HANDOUT 4-11 ■ Module 4 ■ Research Strategies ·