xacc225 syllabus
Associate Level Material
Appendix B
Research Methods Matrix
A psychologist is planning to conduct a study that would examine pathological liars and the quality of their romantic relationships. You have been asked to provide the psychologist with a recommendation for which research method should be used to gather data on the pathological liars and their spouses.
Using the table below list each research method and its advantages and disadvantages for use in this study.
Research Method
Advantages
Disadvantages
Naturalist Observation
Research will be conducted in a natural setting. Therefore, the behavior observed is more likely to be spontaneous, natural, and varied. Behaviors are less likely to be altered when in a familiar environment.
The presence of the observer may cause a change in the patients “normal” behavior in this setting. The observer needs to remain unbiased during this research method.
Surveys
Information can be gathered quickly and efficiently. This would be ideal for large groups.
Questions could be misinterpreted by the participants if they are not detailed enough. Also reduces variety, and individuality of responses.
Experimental Research
Enables strict control of variables, and offers conclusions regarding cause and effect.
Behaviors by participants may be influenced by an unfamiliar setting; this method typically takes place in a controlled environment.
Case Studies
Provides a great deal of information about a specific person. Information is descriptive and can be useful when forming a hypothesis.
Results can be difficult to generalize when used with large groups. This method can be time consuming and costly.
Correlation Research
Shows the researcher the relationship between two or more variables. Allows prediction of behavior.
Does not allow researchers to draw conclusions regarding cause and effect relationships.
Multimethod research
Research is combined in this method. It offers the opportunity to provide
Appendix B
Research Methods Matrix
A psychologist is planning to conduct a study that would examine pathological liars and the quality of their romantic relationships. You have been asked to provide the psychologist with a recommendation for which research method should be used to gather data on the pathological liars and their spouses.
Using the table below list each research method and its advantages and disadvantages for use in this study.
Research Method
Advantages
Disadvantages
Naturalist Observation
Research will be conducted in a natural setting. Therefore, the behavior observed is more likely to be spontaneous, natural, and varied. Behaviors are less likely to be altered when in a familiar environment.
The presence of the observer may cause a change in the patients “normal” behavior in this setting. The observer needs to remain unbiased during this research method.
Surveys
Information can be gathered quickly and efficiently. This would be ideal for large groups.
Questions could be misinterpreted by the participants if they are not detailed enough. Also reduces variety, and individuality of responses.
Experimental Research
Enables strict control of variables, and offers conclusions regarding cause and effect.
Behaviors by participants may be influenced by an unfamiliar setting; this method typically takes place in a controlled environment.
Case Studies
Provides a great deal of information about a specific person. Information is descriptive and can be useful when forming a hypothesis.
Results can be difficult to generalize when used with large groups. This method can be time consuming and costly.
Correlation Research
Shows the researcher the relationship between two or more variables. Allows prediction of behavior.
Does not allow researchers to draw conclusions regarding cause and effect relationships.
Multimethod research
Research is combined in this method. It offers the opportunity to provide