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Descriptive studies in which the researcher does not interact with the participant include observational studies of people in an environment and studies involving data collection using existing records (e.g., medical record review).ĭescriptive studies are usually the best methods for collecting information that will demonstrate relationships and describe the world as it exists.
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Descriptive studies, in which the researcher interacts with the participant, may involve surveys or interviews to collect the necessary information. Descriptive studies are also conducted to demonstrate associations or relationships between things in the world around you.ĭescriptive studies can involve a one-time interaction with groups of people ( cross-sectional study ) or a study might follow individuals over time ( longitudinal study ). The Office of Human Research Protections (OHRP) defines a descriptive study as “Any study that is not truly experimental.” In human research, a descriptive study can provide information about the naturally occurring health status, behavior, attitudes or other characteristics of a particular group.
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Sometimes these are referred to as “ correlational ” or “ observational ” studies. A descriptive study is one in which information is collected without changing the environment (i.e., nothing is manipulated).