Associate Level Material
Appendix B

Research Methods Matrix

A psychologist is planning to conduct a study that would examine pathological liars and the quality of their romantic relationships. You have been asked to provide the psychologist with a recommendation for which research method should be used to gather data on the pathological liars and their spouses.

Using the table below list each research method and its advantages and disadvantages for use in this study.

Research Method
Advantages
Disadvantages
Naturalistic Observation
Showing the data of pathological liars and their spouses in their natural environment, the couple would be relaxed and the research would be easily collected. Making the data the most accurate ever.
Would be the chance that the couple would not go about their day and life normally. They could possibly put a “show” on to come across in a different manner.
Case Studies
Being able to get the most out of the research by using observation, interviews, and even scores that are from psychological test.
The researcher could possibly implement their own view into what they feel that they get from the data that is being observed.
Surveys
Questions could easily pointed towards the main questions at hand, the couple would have an advantage of being completely honest of not knowing what the other is going to say.
Typically there is a large group that is given the surveys. The researcher could become bias based upon the information that is collected.
Correlational Research
This method could be helpful with understand the relationship between the couple better. Being able to give better advice to the couple.
With this method there is no need to figure cause and effect.
Experimental Research
This method helps with the conclusion of cause and