Social psychologists use an empirical method to
examine social behavior. This enables them to
find outcomes that may go against our common
sense and intuition and that could not have been
accurately predicted in advance.
• Measurable variables like self-report,
behavioral, or neuroimaging measures are used
to evaluate the conceptual variables, which make
up the research hypothesis. Research that
involves observing behavior and objectively
documenting such observations is called
observational research. It might even be the sole
method of behavior research in specific
circumstances.
Creating falsifiable research hypotheses is the
foundation of correlational and experimental
research designs.
• While correlational research methodologies
permit prediction, they cannot be applied to
create generalizations regarding
causality. Causation claims can be made using
experimental research designs where the
independent variable is altered.
examine social behavior. This enables them to
find outcomes that may go against our common
sense and intuition and that could not have been
accurately predicted in advance.
• Measurable variables like self-report,
behavioral, or neuroimaging measures are used
to evaluate the conceptual variables, which make
up the research hypothesis. Research that
involves observing behavior and objectively
documenting such observations is called
observational research. It might even be the sole
method of behavior research in specific
circumstances.
Creating falsifiable research hypotheses is the
foundation of correlational and experimental
research designs.
• While correlational research methodologies
permit prediction, they cannot be applied to
create generalizations regarding
causality. Causation claims can be made using
experimental research designs where the
independent variable is altered.
