As you revise the studies in developmental psychology , try to think about what the null and alternative hypotheses might be. Remember though, hypotheses are worded differently in correlational studies. Table 1 provides three alternative hypotheses from Ashdown and Bernard. Work out the null hypothesis for each alternative hypothesis. Remember, hypotheses need to be fully operationalised (see below) to gain credit in your exams. How could these alternative hypotheses be improved?

Table 1: Alternative hypotheses based on Ashdown and Bernard (2012)

Young children who receive the YCDI program show…

greater gains in social and emotional competence than those who do not receive the program.

greater decrease in problem behaviours than those who do not receive the program.

greater gains in academic achievement than those who did not receive the program.