Which statement best describes a disadvantage of controlled observations?

Which statement best describes a disadvantage of controlled observations?

• A. Findings can't be applied to all real life settings
• B. They are easy to replicate
• C. They produce a lot of extraneous variables
• D. They are conducted in a lab

Answer: (C)

In controlled observations, the researcher records behavior in a setting where some aspects are deliberately kept constant to improve reliability. A key downside is that many extraneous variables can still influence behavior, even in this controlled environment. The artificial setting, the presence of an observer, or the way tasks and stimuli are arranged can cue participants or change how they act in ways unrelated to what’s being studied. These unintended influences add extraneous variables that can confound the results and make it harder to draw clear conclusions about cause and effect. While this approach offers control and easier replication, that main limitation is the potential for extraneous factors to creep in. The other statements describe features or broader limitations not specific to this method.

In controlled observations, the researcher records behavior in a setting where some aspects are deliberately kept constant to improve reliability. A key downside is that many extraneous variables can still influence behavior, even in this controlled environment. The artificial setting, the presence of an observer, or the way tasks and stimuli are arranged can cue participants or change how they act in ways unrelated to what’s being studied. These unintended influences add extraneous variables that can confound the results and make it harder to draw clear conclusions about cause and effect. While this approach offers control and easier replication, that main limitation is the potential for extraneous factors to creep in. The other statements describe features or broader limitations not specific to this method.