Research Methods

• Naturalistic Observation

  • Observations of subject in their natural environment without manipulation
  • Limited control over variables ; potential observer bias
• Case Study

  • Intensive study of a single individual or group to explore specific phenomena
  • May not be generalizable; cannot establish causality
• Survey Technique

  • Uses questionnaires to collect date on various aspects from a large group of people
  • Questions could influence answers; potential response bias
• Correlational Research

  • Examines the relationship between two or more variable to determine association
  • Cannot determine causation; may have third variable issues
• Experimental Method

  • Manipulates one variable to determine its effect on another variable
  • May not reflect real-world conditions; ethical concerns