In Contrast to the Experimental Method, the Basic Goal of the Descriptive

question 426

Multiple Choice

In contrast to the experimental method, the basic goal of the descriptive method is to:

• A) investigate and refute "common sense" notions about human behavior.
• B) manipulate variables in a meaningful way.
• C) deduce valid operational definitions and generate new experiments.
• D) observe and describe behavior.

---

Definitions:

Observable Behavior

Actions or reactions of an individual that can be directly seen and measured.

American Psychologists

Professionals based in the United States specializing in the study of cognitive, emotional, and social processes and behavior by observing, interpreting, and recording how individuals relate to one another and their environments.

John B. Watson

An American psychologist who is considered one of the founders of behaviorism, emphasizing the importance of observable behaviors over internal states.

Introspective Study

A research approach focusing on the examination of one's own thoughts and feelings.