PSY-140 Critical Foundations Psychology

If you have a loose idea on a topic but do not know enough yet to narrow, here's a fast way to see what is out there and how you might want to narrow it down.

1. Start by deciding on a broad subject and see if you can find a subject heading that matches it.  The headings are located under the Subjects tab below the search boxes.  Make sure you are searching in PsycInfo specifically and ONLY PsycInfo. 
   
2. Type your main idea in and see if a subject headings matches it. Be sure to read the scope note to make sure it's what you think it is.  You find the scope note by clicking on the heading which will show you broader terms as well.  If the term matches, check mark it and select "Add to Search".  Make sure the term is exploded if that option is available.
3. Once you've added the term, it will populate to the regular search box and you need to hit the search button. That will pull everything up on that topic
4. If you are trying to figure out if this is something you can get into and enjoy, look for Review articles.

   While not empirical research they can give you a faster picture of what is going on in a given area as well as link you back to more research articles that are empirical.  Systematic and Metanalysis are usually of better quality.

5. Follow directions below to narrow the search more.

To filter by methodology, use the filter options on the main search page rather than the results list. 

1. 
2. Scroll down to the Methodology drop down.  EMPIRICAL STUDY all in bold is the main one you will usually want. There are also filters for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analysis available. 
   

1. Use the Access Options button to see if the full-text is available.  If there's a PDF there, you are in luck! If not, select the "Check for full-text availablity" link.
   
2. It will take you to a Library Search page in a new window.  If the full text is available right away there will be a link.
3. If we do not have it right away, you can order it for free from Document Delivery using the link.  It will come to your email in usually 24-48 business hours.  For FREE.