What does psychological realism refer to in an experiment?

Psychological realism pertains specifically to how closely the psychological processes and experiences that participants undergo in an experiment mirror those encountered in real-life situations. When researchers strive for psychological realism, they aim to create scenarios in an experiment that elicit genuine thoughts, emotions, and behaviors similar to what individuals would experience outside the laboratory. This aspect is crucial because it enhances the applicability and relevance of the study’s findings to real-world contexts. By fostering an environment where participants engage in authentically motivated actions, researchers can draw more accurate conclusions about human behavior and cognition.

While the other options relate to different aspects of experimental design and participant experience—such as the physical setting, emotional reactions, or engagement levels—they do not specifically capture the essence of psychological realism as it pertains to aligning psychological processes in experiments with those that occur in day-to-day life.