Question

Match each of the following research methods with its primary disadvantage: $$ \text {1. Archival research} \quad \quad \text {a. The researcher may not be able to generalize to the population at large.} $$ $$ \text {2. Naturalistic observation} \quad \quad \text {b. People's behavior can change if they know they are being watched.} $$ $$ \text {3. Survey research} \quad \quad \text {c. The data may not exist or may be unusable.} $$ $$ \text {4. Case study} \quad \quad \text {d. People may lie in order to present an acceptable image.} $$

Short answer

1. Archival research - c. The data may not exist or may be unusable. \n 2. Naturalistic observation - b. People's behavior can change if they know they are being watched. \n3. Survey research - d. People may lie in order to present an acceptable image. \n4. Case study - a. The researcher may not be able to generalize to the population at large.

Step-by-step solution

Archival research

Archival research relies on data that already exists. Therefore, the primary disadvantage is that the required data may not exist or may not be usable. Thus, 'Archival research' matches with option 'c.'

Naturalistic observation

In naturalistic observation, behavior is studied in its natural context, without any interference by the researcher. The primary disadvantage is that people's behavior can change if they know they are being watched. Thus, 'Naturalistic observation' pairs with 'b.'

Survey research

In survey research, data is collected from people by asking them questions. The primary disadvantage is that people may not always tell the truth, possibly to present an acceptable image. So, 'Survey research' corresponds to 'd.'

Case study

A case study is a method that involves detailed examination of a single subject. The primary disadvantage of this method is the potential difficulty in generalizing the observations to the larger population. Therefore, 'Case study' matches with option 'a.'

Key concepts

Archival Research

Archival research is a method in which researchers study documents and records to gather data and create conclusions. This method is incredibly useful for accessing historical and past data efficiently without the need for real-time observation or interaction.

However, the challenge with archival research arises from the possibility that the necessary data may not exist or can be incomplete, outdated, or not representative of the population. To ensure the validity of archival research, it's important for researchers to assess the credibility and relevance of the sources. This can include checking for biases that might affect the outcomes of the analysis.

Naturalistic Observation

Naturalistic observation involves watching subjects in their natural environment without any manipulation or intervention. This method provides researchers with the opportunity to understand behavior in its real-world setting, thereby offering insights that might not be evident in a controlled, laboratory setting.

One major drawback is the 'Hawthorne Effect'—the alteration of behavior by the subjects due to their awareness of being observed. This effect can skew results and reduce the reliability of the data. To minimize this, researchers often use unobtrusive methods to blend into the natural environment and observe without detection.

Survey Research

Survey research is a widely utilized technique that involves collecting data from a predetermined group of respondents to gain information and insights on various topics. This method can be conducted using various formats like questionnaires, telephone interviews, or online polls.

The accuracy of survey research can, however, be compromised by the possibility of participants providing dishonest or socially desirable responses. Known as 'response bias,' this issue can lead to distorted findings. Researchers have to carefully design their surveys to mitigate this, employing tactics such as anonymous responses and ensuring that the survey questions are neutral and clear.

Case Study

A case study is an in-depth study of one person, group, event, or community. It provides detailed insights and a rich understanding of the subject being studied, often involving qualitative data like interviews, observations, and analysis of secondary sources.

Despite the depth of information they can provide, case studies face the limitation of generalizability. Since they focus on a single case, it's often challenging to apply the findings to the broader population. Researchers must be cautious when interpreting case study results, making clear the contextual and individual limitations of their study. This method is best used when exploring new areas of research or illustrating a phenomenon in detail.