Which psychological term refers to the methods used for systematic observation in studies?

Descriptive methods refer to the techniques used to systematically observe and describe characteristics of a phenomenon or a population without manipulating any variables. These methods include various approaches such as case studies, surveys, observational studies, and content analysis. They aim to provide a comprehensive picture by capturing what is happening in a natural setting, allowing researchers to gather data on behaviors, traits, and opinions.

The focus of descriptive methods is on detail and depth of observation rather than establishing cause-and-effect relationships. This makes them ideal for exploratory research or when researchers want to gather preliminary information before further investigation. In contrast, experimental methods involve manipulation and control, while qualitative and quantitative methods are broader categories that encompass various techniques, with qualitative focusing on subjective experiences and quantitative emphasizing numerical data analysis.