Study Title:  How Traits and Attitudes Can Influence Perception 
Protocol Number: HSR-24-25-111 
Researchers: Claudia Morris - Psychology Department M. A. Student, Dr. Aaron Goetz – Psychology Department Professor 
 

Dear Prospective participant 
   
You are being asked to participate in a research study by Claudia Morris under the guidance of Dr. Aaron T. Goetz in the Department of Psychology. This consent form explains the research study and your part in it if you decide to join the study. Please read the form carefully, taking as much time as you need. You can decide not to join the study. Ask the researcher to explain anything you don't understand. If you join the study, you can change your mind later or quit anytime. There will be no penalty or loss of services or benefits if you decide not to participate in the study or quit later.  
 
What is this study about? 
The purpose of this research study is to understand how traits and experiences influence how people see the world. 
 
You are being asked to participate if you are at least 18 years old and speak English. You cannot take part in the study if you are under 18 years old or do not speak English. 
 
Taking part in the study will take about 20 minutes. 
 
What will I be asked to do if I am in this study? 
 
If you choose to participate, you will be presented with a brief online questionnaire requesting information about your personal traits, behaviors, attitudes, and perceptions of others. 
 
Completion of the entire study will take about 20 minutes, but there is no rush if you wish to take more time. Thank you in advance for helping us get this valuable research done! 
 
Are there any benefits to me if I am in this study? 

Participants will be contributing to a new body of literature and experiencing the research process first-hand. In some cases, if you have not been familiar with the topic prior to the study, you may come away from the experience with a desire to learn more about perceptions of human behavior. This research could have important applications, but the ultimate value it brings depends on how open and honest you are in answering the questions. 
 
Are there any risks to me if I am in this study? 

Participation in this study involves minimal risk. That is, the risks involved with this study are no more than you would experience in regular daily activities. In case you experience any discomfort with a question, you are free to skip any question without any penalty. 
 
Will my information be kept anonymous or confidential? 

Data will be kept anonymously. Neither the researcher(s) nor anyone else will be able to link your data to you. Data will be stored in a password-protected computer accessible only to the primary researchers (Claudia Morris and Dr. Aaron Goetz). 

 
The data for this study will be kept for a minimum of 5 years. The data will be used in presentations, publications, and future educational use. No published results, presentations, or educational use will identify you, and your name will not be associated with the findings. 
 
Are there any costs or payments for being in this study? 

There will be no cost to you taking part in this study. 
 
All participants can enter an opportunity drawing for a $20.00 Amazon gift card if they choose to. To enter this opportunity drawing, there will be a link to a Google Form to keep your data separate from your contact information and maintain anonymity. 

 

California State University, Fullerton students only:
When applicable, participation of those who are enrolled at California State University, Fullerton, includes the possibility of earning extra credit towards a participating class. To earn extra credit for a participating class, there will be a link to a Google Form to keep your data separate from your contact information and maintain anonymity. 
 
Whom can I contact if I have questions? 

If you have questions about this study or the information in this form, please contact the researchers, Claudia Morris or Dr. Aaron T. Goetz. If you have questions about your rights as a research participant or would like to report a concern or complaint about this study, please contact the Institutional Review Board at (657) 278-7719 or e-mail irb@fullerton.edu.
 
What are my rights as a research study volunteer? 

Your participation in this research study is completely voluntary. You may choose not to be a part of this study. There will be no penalty for you if you choose not to take part. You may choose not to answer specific questions or to stop participating at any time.  
 
What does my signature on this form mean? 

Your signature on this form means that: 

  • You understand the information given to you in this form. 

  • You have been able to ask the researcher questions and state any concerns. 

  • The researcher has responded to your questions and concerns. 

  • You believe you understand the research study and the potential benefits and risks that are involved. 

 
Consent Statement  
 
I have carefully read and/or have had the terms used in this consent form and their significance explained to me. By clicking below, I agree that I am at least 18 years of age and agree to participate in this project. You may print this page for your records.  

Do you agree to participate in this study?