Understanding Psychology (10th Ed)

case study
is an in-depth, intensive 
investigation of a single individual or a small group. Case studies often include 
psychological testing , a procedure in which a carefully designed set of questions is 
used to gain some insight into the personality of the individual or group (Addus, 
Chen, & Khan, 2007; Gass et al., 2000).
When case studies are used as a research technique, the goal is often not only 
to learn about the few individuals being examined but also to use the insights 
survey research
Research in which 
people chosen to represent a larger 
population are asked a series of 
questions about their behavior, 
thoughts, or attitudes.
case study
An in-depth, intensive 
investigation of an individual or small 
group of people.
Dian Fossey, a pioneer in the study of 
endangered mountain gorillas in their 
native habitat, relied on naturalistic 
observation for her research. What are 
the advantages of this approach?
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Module 5 
Conducting Psychological Research 
39
gained from the study to improve our understanding of people in 
general. Sigmund Freud developed his theories through case stud-
ies of individual patients. Similarly, case studies of terrorists might 
help identify others who are prone to violence. 
The drawback to case studies? If the individuals examined are 
unique in certain ways, it is impossible to make valid generalizations 
to a larger population. Still, they sometimes lead the way to new 
theories and treatments for psychological disorders.
Correlational Research
In using the descriptive research methods we have discussed, 
researchers often wish to determine the relationship between two 
variables.
Variables
are behaviors, events, or other characteristics 
that can change, or vary, in some way. For example, in a study to 
determine whether the amount of studying makes a difference in test 
scores, the variables would be study time and test scores.
In