Which of the following statements is a key advantage of naturalistic observation?
A) Researchers can manipulate animal and human behavior.
B) Operational definitions are not needed, since only natural behaviors are studied.
C) Researchers can easily duplicate conditions that have been first investigated in laboratory settings.
D) Researchers can study behavior that could not ethically be manipulated in an experiment.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Naturalistic observation allows researchers to study behaviors that cannot be ethically manipulated in an experiment, making it a valuable tool in situations where experimental manipulation would be unethical. The other options are not advantages of naturalistic observation; in fact, they are limitations. Option A is not possible in naturalistic observation, as researchers cannot manipulate natural behaviors. Option B assumes that natural behaviors do not require operational definitions, which is not true; operational definitions are still necessary to ensure that behaviors are measured consistently and accurately. Option C is also unlikely, as naturalistic observation generally lacks the level of control necessary for true replication of laboratory conditions.

Which of the Following Statements Is a Key Advantage of Naturalistic