Final answer:
A behavior is something observable by others, while a feeling is self-reported. Observations are often measurable and conducted in controlled environments, while self-reported feelings are collected through subjective methods like questionnaires.
Step-by-step explanation:
A behavior is something that others can observe and a feeling is something that is self-reported. An observation is typically something that can be directly seen or measured, such as in a controlled observation environment, which allows for a direct, physical observation of a process or behavior over time. This is important in fields such as biology or psychology, where researchers rely on both qualitative research and quantitative data to understand the complexities of organisms and human behavior.
For example, in psychology or health-related studies, direct observation could involve noting how individuals react to certain stimuli, which can be quite objective. Conversely, self-reported feelings or thoughts are by nature subjective and require tools such as questionnaires or self-report inventories to collect data. These methods can provide valuable insight but are dependent on the honesty and self-awareness of the participants.