In what way does an experiment differ from an observational study?

An experiment is characterized by its ability to manipulate one or more independent variables to observe the effect on a dependent variable, which allows researchers to establish cause-and-effect relationships. This manipulation is a defining feature that distinguishes experiments from observational studies, where researchers simply observe and record behaviors or outcomes without intervening or altering any conditions. In experimental design, random assignment and controlled variables are commonly utilized to minimize confounding factors, further enhancing the validity of causal conclusions.

By directly changing a variable and measuring the outcome, experiments can provide insights into how different factors influence behavior. This capacity for causal inference is essential for psychological research, enabling scientists to test hypotheses rigorously.

In contrast, observational studies seek to understand relationships as they naturally occur, making them valuable for descriptive purposes but limited in their ability to establish causation. Therefore, the defining aspect of experiments lies in their active manipulation of variables and the focus on determining causal relationships.