Final answer:
It's important to support what you're saying with evidence to distinguish informed claims from opinions, to provide solid ground for your arguments, and to add credibility to your points, especially when psychological research is involved.
Step-by-step explanation:
Supporting what you are saying with evidence is critical in a discussion for several reasons. Firstly, evidence differentiates a substantiated claim from a mere opinion. Secondly, evidence acts as a foundation supporting the reasons you present, compelling the audience to accept your claims. Lastly, evidence showcases the depth of your research and understanding of the topic at hand, adding credibility to your argument.
When discussing findings from psychological research, providing evidence helps others see the basis of your conclusions and can bridge gaps in understanding. To make a credible argument, you must select the types of supporting evidence that best corroborate your points. This could range from factual data, literary quotes, expert testimony, or statistical findings depending on the subject matter. In academic settings, such as a college class, evidence must be meticulously documented and accurate to be persuasive to instructors and classmates.
In essence, evidence is the pillar that upholds your arguments in any scholarly or logical debate. Without it, your arguments lack the necessary weight to be considered seriously by your audience, regardless of whether that audience comprises peers, professionals, or a wider community.