J

Lab experiments

Controlled studies where variables are manipulated to test hypothesis in a scientific setting- usually in a lab

Key features-

Controlled environment- Conducted in a lab setting- researcher controls variables

  • Conducted in a highly controlled setting (often a lab)

  • Researcher manipulates all variables except the independent variables

Hypothesis testing

  • Experiments begin with a clear hypothesis

  • Aim is to test the hypothesis under controlled conditions and produce qualitative data

Manipulation of variables

  • Independent variable is deliberately changed by the researcher

  • Dependant variable is what is measured

  • Other variables are controlled to prevent interference (control variables)

Replication

  • Lab conditions are controlled, the experiment can be repeated exactly

  • Allows replication to test reliability

  • Positivists value this as a key part of producing objective and generalisable findings

Artificiality

  • Settings are not natural, which can affect participant behaviour

  • Participants may behave differently because they know that they are being studied (Hawthorne effect)

Ethical considerations

Lab experiments often raise ethical issues-

  • Informed consent

  • Deception

  • Psychological harm

Standardised procedure-

  • Experiments follow a standard set of instructions and procedures

  • Ensures consistency and fairness across all participants

Strengths of lab experiments

  • High reliability- Controlled conditions make it easy to repeat

  • Cause and effect- Helps establish clear links between variables

  • Scientific credibility- Seen as objective and systematic

Limitations

  • Low validity- Artificial setting may lead to unnatural behaviour (Hawthorne effect)

  • Ethical issues- Can involve deception, lack of informed consent (Milgram)

  • Limited use in sociology- Hard to study complex social phenomena in a lab

Key theorists-

  • Milgram- Obedience to authority

Positivists vs Interpretivists views

Positivists- Support lab experiments- believe in scientific methods

Interpretivists- Criticise lab experiments- argue that they lack validity and don’t capture meanings behind actions