Empirical research is defined by the context of two separate types of study. Both methods are of value to the researcher in his/her quest for better understanding of the test subjects. However, correlational and experimental studies each has its own set of qualifications which allow for differences in subject and matter. Scientifically, some of these are useful, though others could be viewed as problematic.
Correlational research is the process of studying the relationship between two variables. The examiner does not manipulate a relational study. Findings can either be positive, negative, or unrelated. Though scientific in the final statistical manner; the researcher uses his senses to observe and ultimately determine into which category a study falls. A positive correlation shows increases in both variables. Alternately, negative correlation looks at the increase in one variable, and the relation to the decrease in the other variable. There has to be an association between the two, or the result is unrelational.
The scientific element to a correlational study is a measurable expression of degree defined as the correlational coefficient. It is a practical technique that gives a representation to the study. Numbers correspond with the level of correlation from a negative one demonstrating a perfect negative correlation, to positive one, showing a precise positive correlation. A zero on this graph would indicate no relation, or an unrelational correlation.
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There is not much science in a “guess” or “reliable hint” as McAdams discusses in explaining correlational context. Case in point, McAdams uses height and weight to show a positive correlation. The assumption is that, “If you know that John is tall [then]… he is relatively heavy (compared to a shorter person).” Here, there is a lack of information in regard to the participants, their health, history, and lifestyle. Some of the disadvantages have to do with what can be viewed as missing data.
Negative correlational study is mentioned by McAdams as he looks at the age and thumb sucking variables. The conclusion is that most often, “as age progresses, thumb sucking decreases.” It is beneficial that a large group can be studied in this manner, though this case could exhibit unreliable data. Are the participants giving the researcher honest information? It is possible that an older child might not want to discuss his thumb sucking due to embarrassment.
It seems that in a study such as McAdams describes, an advantage could be ease and cost effectiveness. Aside from the mention of exception, correlational studies might be generally challenged. Because the study is not manipulated by the researcher, the variables and participants are taken at face value. What seems to be lacking is a control over the variables.
When researchers use experimental design through use of dependent and independent variables, they are able to observe cause and effect – one of the elements lacking in the first series of studies. The independent variable is manipulated and the dependent is the resulting response. It seems as though this method might be preferred since it employs a more methodical means through limited stimuli, and a controlled environment. However, in a psychological study, there could be factors that cannot be controlled such as personality. In such an instance, the study would be far from systematic.
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Each facet of empirical research has its benefits and drawbacks. With the ultimate goal one of subject study, researchers can evaluate the differences in study methods, weighing the advantages and disadvantages. The final decision regarding the manner of investigation is the one best suited for the situation that will in the end offer the examiner insight into the subject matter.
Bibliography
McAdams, Dan P., The Person: An Integrated Introduction to Personality Psychology, 3rd ed, New York, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2002.
