Research Guides: Psychology: Article Databases

Steps for Searching Databases

1. CHOOSE A TOPIC

2. PREPARE YOUR SEARCH

3. CHOOSE A DATABASE

4. KEEP YOUR FIRST SEARCHES SIMPLE

Try using 1 keyword first, before trying the Boolean connectors: AND, OR, or NOT to combine 2 or more concepts.

5. REVIEW YOUR RESULTS

Too many records ? Consider changing your terms or narrow your topic to something more specific, for example:
- Instead of "dogs" try "service dogs"
- Try a specific group (like "young adults"),
- Try a certain geographical location (like "United States"),
- Try a specific date range (like "2015-2020")
Too few records? Try synonyms, fewer keywords, or broader terms. Use OR between terms to expand the search, for example:
- Instead of "service canines that help with post traumatic stress syndrome", try "service dogs" AND PTSD OR trauma

6. GET THE ARTICLE

Make sure you can locate full-text articles (pdf or html format) then email, download or print

7. CHECK THE CITATION

Almost all of the databases have a tools that will provide a citation in any format for an article. Look to right side for a "cite" button

8. LOOK AGAIN!

If you aren't finding what you need, or if you are feeling confident and want to keep going, try looking at other databases or in other sources. Or Ask a Librarian for help.

Check out the databases below for access to full-text, online articles from academic journals, magazines, newspapers, and more.

Once you become familiar searching them you can try some others from our A-Z list of databases.

Remember - almost all database articles will provide tools so you can find citation, email & printing options, and other information.

For off campus access, use your MySVC/Canvas login and password.

More help with research can be found:

Building a Library Research Strategy Guide