Final answer:
Pseudoscientific study is the type of study that does not adhere to the scientific method and lacks empirical support, unlike observational studies which measure characteristics in a sample but do attempt to maintain scientific validity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of study that deviates from the scientific method and is based on little or no scientific evidence for support is known as pseudoscientific study. Unlike an observational study, which measures characteristics in a sample without attempting to manipulate variables and adheres to scientific methodologies, pseudoscientific studies do not follow the rigorous process and validation that are hallmarks of scientific inquiry.
Pseudoscientific studies can often be identified by a lack of empirical evidence, reliance on anecdotal observations, the absence of an attempt to disprove the hypothesis, and a failure to publish findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals. They are not considered legitimate scientific studies because they do not adhere to the principles and structured steps of the scientific method, such as forming a hypothesis, testing it through controlled experiments, and rigorously analyzing the results.