Which of the following is the best example of a question that would be researched more effectively using observational research as opposed to survey research?

Question

A) Do you own a dishwasher?
B) What qualities come to mind when you think about insurance companies?
C) If you were gambling in a casino, under what conditions would you stop?
D) Have you ever considered buying solar panels for your home?
E) If your local newspaper stopped producing a paper version and became online only, what, if anything, would you pay for access to the online version?

Answer 1

Answer: C
Explanation: C) Observational research can be more effective than other modes of research, such as asking a question directly, in cases where the subject might be unable or unwilling to give an accurate response. Choice C is a good example of such a question. If you asked people what would make them stop gambling, they would likely tell you what they would like to be true, but what actually happens is another issue. Seeing when people actually stop gambling provides a more accurate response, so Choice C is correct. Choice A can be answered in a straightforward way, and there is no reason to believe that people would be unwilling or unable to give an accurate answer to the question. Choices B and D can't be observed because mental states can't be observed. These questions are good candidates for traditional research approaches. Choice E is impractical because you would have to stop the paper version in order to observe it.