psy 210 CheckPoint: Research Methods
Research Method Description Application
Scientific method
Case study method
Survey method
Naturalistic observation method
Correlation method
Experimental method
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Research Method Description Application
Scientific method A systematic and objective approach used to investigate and gather knowledge about phenomena in the natural world. It involves formulating a research question, conducting observations and experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. The scientific method can be applied in various fields such as psychology, biology, physics, and chemistry to study and understand complex phenomena.
Case study method An in-depth study of an individual, group, or event, aiming to provide a detailed analysis and understanding of the subject. It involves gathering information through interviews, observations, and reviewing records. The case study method is commonly used in clinical psychology and psychiatry to examine rare or unique phenomena such as psychological disorders or exceptional human experiences.
Survey method A research method that uses questionnaires or interviews to gather data from a large number of participants. It aims to collect information about beliefs, attitudes, behaviors, or demographic characteristics of a specific population. The survey method is widely used in social sciences, marketing research, and public opinion polling to understand patterns, opinions, and trends among the targeted population.
Naturalistic observation method An observational research method that involves observing and documenting behavior in its natural setting without interference or manipulation by the researcher. It is often used in fields such as anthropology, ethology, and developmental psychology to understand the behavior of humans and animals in their natural environment.
Correlation method Examines the relationship between two or more variables without controlling or manipulating them. It measures the extent to which changes in one variable are associated with changes in another variable. The correlation method is used in social sciences to investigate relationships between variables, such as the correlation between smoking and lung cancer or the correlation between stress and academic performance.
Experimental method A research method in which researchers manipulate one or more variables to study the effect on another variable. It involves randomly assigning participants to different conditions, controlling extraneous variables, and comparing outcomes. The experimental method is widely used in psychology, biology, and medicine to study cause-and-effect relationships and test hypotheses.