Final answer:
Controlled experiments can determine causal relationships as they allow researchers to make cause-and-effect claims through the manipulation of independent variables. Experiments can occur in a lab or naturally in the field, and any differences found are attributed to the independent variable. However, experiments have limitations as sometimes it isn't ethical or feasible to conduct them.
Step-by-step explanation:
Unlike research, controlled experiments can determine causal relationships. One way researchers test social theories is by conducting an experiment. Here they investigate relationships to test a hypothesis in a scientific approach. Experiments permit researchers to make cause-and-effect assertions based on the manipulation of independent variables.
Two main types of experiments are lab-based experiments and natural or field-based experiments. For instance, to test if aspirin regularly reduces the risk of a heart attack, an experiment could divide participants into two groups: one taking aspirin, and the other a placebo. If done properly, any significant differences in the findings are caused by the independent variable, thus, allowing a causal statement to be made.
However, it is important to note that conducting experiments has limitations. Sometimes, due to ethical constraints or physical impossibilities, researchers cannot always conduct experimental studies and may have to use other methods such as observational studies or surveys instead.
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