Question

Which statements are true about observational studies? Choose all correct answers.

a. Observational studies involve manipulation of dependent variables.
b. Observational studies have negative controls but not positive controls.
c. Observational studies have both independent and dependent variables.
d. Observational studies can be used to test hypotheses.
e. Observational studies do not have either independent or dependent variables.
f. Observational studies do not involve manipulating independent variables.
g. Observational studies do not have controls.

Answer 1

In observational studies, researchers do not manipulate independent variables but observe the relationship between independent and dependent variables to test hypotheses.

Step-by-step explanation:

Observational studies are a research method commonly used in fields such as biology to investigate the relationship between variables without manipulation by the researcher. Among the choices provided, the true statements about observational studies are:

• (c) Observational studies have both independent and dependent variables. These are the factors being studied to see if changes in one (the independent variable) result in changes in the other (the dependent variable).
• (d) Observational studies can be used to test hypotheses. They allow researchers to gather evidence and observations to support or refute a hypothesis.
• (f) Observational studies do not involve manipulating independent variables. In these studies, the variables are observed as they naturally occur.

Options (a) and (e) are incorrect because observational studies involve independent and dependent variables, but these are not manipulated. Options (b) and (g) are also incorrect; it's a misconception that observational studies do not have controls. While they may not have experimental manipulations, they can still use control groups or techniques to account for other variables that might influence the outcome.

Answer 2

c. Observational studies have both independent and dependent variables.

d. Observational studies can be used to test hypothesis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Observational studies are ones in which a researcher makes observations about his thoughts and views. He observes the risk and other effects before actual test takes place. This is usually the initial phase of research where observations are made for suitability of certain things that are to be researched. There is initial feasibility test conducted to identify whether the further research process is beneficial or not.