Question

Identify three different types of research methods commonly used in psychological research. identify the advantages and disadvantages of each method of research

Answer 1

Observational methods, case-study methods and survey methods. 

Observational Method

With the observational method (sometimes referred to as field observation) animal and human behavior is closely observed.  There are two main categories of the observational method — naturalistic observation and laboratory observation. 

Case Study Method

Case study research involves an in-depth study of an individual or group of indviduals.  Case studies often lead to testable hypotheses and allow us to study rare phenomena.  Case studies should not be used to determine cause and effect, and they have limited use for making accurate predictions. 


Survey Method

In survey method research, participants answer questions administered through interviews or questionnaires.  After participants answer the questions, researchers describe the responses given. In order for the survey to be both reliable and valid it is important that the questions are constructed properly.  Questions should be written so they are clear and easy to comprehend.