Which of the following is true about observations in psychology research?

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Study for the UCF PSY3213C Research Methods in Psychology Exam. Review key concepts with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations and hints. Master your subject and excel in your test!

Observations in psychology research are most effective when they are repeated over significant periods of time, as this allows researchers to gather more reliable and comprehensive data. Longitudinal observations provide insight into patterns and changes over time, which is essential for understanding psychological phenomena that may evolve. Such repeated observations help establish consistency and validity in findings, as they lessen the influence of outlier events and provide a broader context for analysis.

The other options do not align with best practices in conducting research observations. For instance, casual and informal observations can lack the rigor needed for scientific study. Utilizing only one sense limits understanding, as behavior can be perceived through various sensory modalities. Finally, while intuition can guide observations, relying solely on intuitive and subjective interpretations detracts from the objective approach necessary for rigorous psychological research.