Which of the following is considered a descriptive research method in psychology?

• A. Randomized controlled trial
• B. Case study
• C. Experimental design
• D. Longitudinal intervention

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of descriptive research methods in psychology. These methods aim to observe, describe, and document aspects of a situation as they naturally occur, without manipulating variables.
2. Step 2: Review each option and classify it based on whether it involves manipulation or intervention (which would make it experimental) or if it simply describes phenomena.
3. Step 3: Recognize that a randomized controlled trial and experimental design involve manipulation of variables to test hypotheses, so they are not descriptive methods.
4. Step 4: Understand that a longitudinal intervention involves following participants over time with some form of intervention, which is also experimental rather than purely descriptive.
5. Step 5: Identify that a case study involves an in-depth, detailed examination of a single individual or group without manipulation, fitting the criteria of a descriptive research method.