The use of a laboratory experiment is desirable:
A) when the sample is representative of the population to which the results are generalized.
B) when the experiment's context and conduct are natural so that the subjects behave realistically.
C) when the intent of the experiment is to achieve high levels of external validity.
D) when the intent of the experiment is to achieve high levels of internal validity.
E) when the intent is to achieve high external validity and moderate internal validity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The use of a laboratory experiment is desirable when the intent of the experiment is to achieve high levels of internal validity. Laboratory experiments are conducted in controlled environments with carefully selected and manipulated variables to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between the independent and dependent variables. This allows researchers to control for extraneous variables and obtain accurate results that can be replicated, increasing the internal validity of the study. However, the external validity of laboratory experiments may be limited as it may not reflect the reality of the population or the context in which the behavior occurs.

The Use of a Laboratory Experiment Is Desirable