Define the term "hypothesis."

A hypothesis is fundamentally understood as a testable prediction about the relationship between two or more variables. In research, it serves as a foundational statement that provides direction for investigation. A well-formed hypothesis allows researchers to formulate their study design, determine data collection methods, and establish analytical techniques.

This definition emphasizes the necessity for the hypothesis to be testable; it must be possible to assess the hypothesis through empirical methods, enabling researchers to determine whether evidence supports or refutes it. This is essential in advancing scientific understanding, as it lays the groundwork for experimentation and the collection of data.

The clarity of a hypothesis also aids in establishing clear variables. These might include independent variables, which researchers manipulate, and dependent variables, which researchers measure to observe effects. Thus, the hypothesis becomes a crucial element in the research process, guiding the trajectory of inquiry and contributing to the broader knowledge base in psychology and other fields.