US High School Psychology Practice Exam

Using case studies is an effective method for what purpose?

1. Collecting data from large populations

2. Establishing experimental evidence

3. Understanding individual behaviors in detail

4. Analyzing statistical trends

The correct answer is: Understanding individual behaviors in detail

Using case studies is particularly effective for understanding individual behaviors in detail because they provide an in-depth exploration of a specific individual's experience, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This qualitative approach allows psychologists to gather rich, nuanced information that can reveal underlying motivations, patterns, and complexities of behavior that might not be captured through larger-scale quantitative methods. Case studies often include various data collection methods, such as interviews, observations, and psychological assessments, which together create a comprehensive picture of the individual being studied. This method is particularly valuable for exploring rare or unusual phenomena, offering insights that can contribute to theory development or practical applications in psychology. In contrast, methods aimed at collecting data from large populations focus on quantitative data and generalizability, while establishing experimental evidence relies on controlled conditions and manipulation of variables. Analyzing statistical trends often emphasizes aggregated data and may overlook the individual variations that case studies highlight. Thus, while case studies have limitations in terms of generalizability to broader populations, their strength lies in their detailed approach to understanding individual behaviors.