Research Methods
While searching for articles that focus on a particular topic within the field of psychology, you may come across
several different forms of scholarly research. Research in psychology can be either quantitative (experimental) or
qualitative (descriptive). The following are the most common types of studies:
- Experiments: The most scientifically rigorous type of research, the experiment usually takes place in
a controlled environment, such as a laboratory, but it can also occur in a community or in another less controlled setting. Used to test a specific hypothesis by measuring and manipulating variables,
it usually involves randomized assignment of subjects, standardized instructions, and at least one independent variable and one
dependent variable.
- Correlational Studies: The purpose of a correlational study is to determine if a relationship
exists between two variables, and what form it takes. The results are usually composed of statistics, and because there is no manipulation of
variables, they do not imply causation.
- Naturalistic Observation: Naturalistic observation consists of observing behavior in the subjects' natural
environment, without attempting to modify their behavior. It is considered a descriptive study.
- Case Studies: A type of qualitative research, a case study involves an in-depth study of an
individual (or event), usually over an extended amount of time. It can involve observation, interviews, and psychological
testing.
- Surveys: In a survey, subjects respond to a set of questions. Usually, the subjects
represent a certain sample, or subset, of a population.
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