AP Psych Research Methods

Experiments

Where the researcher manipulates one variable to determine its effect on another variable

• Used to prove causation

• Can be retested and proven

Correlational studies

Measures two variables and examines how they relate to each other without manipulating either one of them

• Can be used when an experiment is impossible or unethical

• Cannot determine cause and effect

Survey research

Involves asking a large number of participants a series of questions or completing a questionnaire

Naturalistic observation

Where researchers observe individuals' behavior in their natural environment without intervention or manipulation

• The Hawthrone effect could occur → subjects may alter their behavior due to their awareness of being observed

Case study

Detailed investigations into one individual or small group, providing rich qualitative data and insights into unique situations that may not be captured in larger-scale research methods

• Cannot generalize results to a wider population

Longitudinal studies

Involves repeated observations of the same variables (e.g., people) over long periods of time, often many decades

Cross-sectional studies

Analyzes people of different groups at the same time (ex. different ages during the same year)