How did you come up with it?

I am trying to get ready for my undergraduate symposium early and I just wanted to know, how did those of you who already did this come up with your research idea? I know my interests but not how to convert that into a viable study.

Read the existing literature in your area and look for gaps, find a real world problem or issue that could be addressed experimentally, talk to your professors for ideas, etc.

I'd recommend a research methods course. It can be hard to think scientifically when you haven't had exposure to basic science research concepts.

I won't be taking the research classes till next year. I just wanted to get an idea early on, I'm the type of person that likes to prepare ahead of time. Maybe give me something to do over the summer while I wait for my fall classes. (cognitive processes, abnormal psych, neuropsych, and history of psych). My main interest is psychotherapy, and honestly Im really dying for the class where my professor will explain why so many psychologists disagree with freud. I think there was some method to some of that madness. I don't think its so preposterous that our behaviors are linked to childhood events, sex, and aggression.

Oh, I'd also definitely wait if you haven't taken research methods yet.

No comment on the Freud thing.

Originally Posted by cara susanna

Oh, I'd also definitely wait if you haven't taken research methods yet.

No comment on the Freud thing.

No please do comment!!! lol, my neuro prof's reaction was "aww thats cute" and she told me to read a few things. But it hasn't dissuaded me yet. Nova Southeastern has a specialization in psychodynamic psych (my current school for undergrad) and I said "I'm not the only crazy one Doc!" But she thinks I still am lol.

Originally Posted by Jonq1102

I won't be taking the research classes till next year. I just wanted to get an idea early on, I'm the type of person that likes to prepare ahead of time. Maybe give me something to do over the summer while I wait for my fall classes. (cognitive processes, abnormal psych, neuropsych, and history of psych). My main interest is psychotherapy, and honestly Im really dying for the class where my professor will explain why so many psychologists disagree with freud. I think there was some method to some of that madness. I don't think its so preposterous that our behaviors are linked to childhood events, sex, and aggression.

there should be a plethora of articles and books on this subject.

Originally Posted by Therapist4Chnge

there should be a plethora of articles and books on this subject.

I know but I'm an auditory learner, I have ADHD so it's really hard for me to sit down and just read. I find more success when I can discuss the topic with someone.