In the behavioral sciences, a primary source is an empirical study or information that has not been interpreted or presented by another author. This could include a dataset or other quantitative results, or the results of an experiment published in a peer-reviewed journal. When searching for primary sources in the field of psychology, you will want to look for first-hand accounts of research conducted by the author(s). These are usually recent publications that present new information or discoveries.
Most articles which detail empirical research (i.e., original studies) will contain several common headings, such as Method, Results, and Discussion, along with a list of References. If the title of the article contains the terms "review," "systematic review," or "meta-analysis," those are exactly what they sound like - reviews of existing research which are not considered to be primary sources.
A primary source in psychology will be...
These databases are good places to start your search for primary sources in psychology. Another good option can be Google Scholar. Our PsycARTICLES database has a search option where you can limit your results to a specific methodology, including empirical studies.
PsycARTICLES:
Full text articles on current issues in psychology including journals published by American Psychological Association and allied organizations.
Has Peer Reviewed: Yes
Searchable in Discovery: Yes
SAGE Premier:
Provides access to over 600 journal titles in business, humanities, social sciences, and science, technology and medicine with backfile to 1999.
Has Peer Reviewed: Yes
Searchable in Discovery: Yes