To demonstrate a causal link between a reinforcer and elevated performance, one should apply a(n) ________ approach.
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Answer: B. experimental
Explanation
To establish a direct causal relationship between a variable and an outcome, researchers must use an experimental approach. Experimental designs involve manipulating independent variables and controlling extraneous factors to demonstrate clear cause and effect links. Elevated performance resulting from a specific reinforcer can only be proven causal through controlled experimental methodology. The experimental method is the gold standard in scientific psychology for determining definitive causal connections between phenomena. Random assignment to experimental and control groups ensures that pre-existing differences do not confound the observed outcomes. Operant conditioning studies rely heavily on laboratory experiments to verify how reinforcers modify target response rates.
A clinical study typically focuses on individual patient diagnosis and treatment rather than isolating controlled causal variables. Surveys gather self-reported data regarding opinions or behaviors but cannot establish definitive causal relationships between variables. Correlational approaches measure statistical associations between factors without manipulating conditions to prove directional causation.
- Subject
- Psychology
- Category
- Psychology
- Topic
- —
- Difficulty
- medium
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