There are three main types of psychological research correlational research descriptive research experimental research the following are common research designs and data collection methods archival research case study although case studies are often included in research methods pages they are actually not a single research method case study methodology involves using a body of different research methods eg interview observation self report questionnaire researchers . Research methods aims and hypotheses the aim of the study is a statement of what the researcher intents to investigate the hypothesis sampling a sample is the participants you select from a target population the group you are interested in to make variables independent variable iv . Now in its ninth successful edition research methods in psychology unites students passion for psychology with their interest in answering questions about behavior and mental processes the text introduces students to an array of methodological tools psychologists use in their research from the basics of scientific inquiry ethical conduct and controlled observation to correlational experimental and applied approaches to research throughout students learn research methods within . Psychology research methods study guide introduction to research methods the first step in your review should include a basic introduction to psychology the scientific method psychologists use the scientific method to conduct studies and research in psychology the basic correlational