A behaviorist is asked to evaluate five students in the second grade who exhibit impulse control problems. The behaviorist decides it is best initially to study them in the classroom without interfering with their behavior. This behaviorist is conducting __________ research.
The behaviorist in this scenario is conducting an observational research study. Observational research involves systematically observing and documenting behavior in its natural setting without manipulating or interfering with the behavior being observed. In this case, the behaviorist is observing the students in their second-grade classroom to evaluate their impulse control problems. By studying the students' behavior without intervening, the behaviorist can gain a better understanding of their natural behavior patterns and potential causes of their impulse control problems.
