If explanation of the causes of thoughts, feelings, and behavior is a psychologist's goal, then the ________ method of research should be used.

A) experimental
B) survey
C) correlational
D) naturalistic observation

Experimental Method

A research methodology that tests hypotheses through controlled experimentation to establish cause-and-effect relationships.

Causes

Factors or events that bring about an effect or a change; reasons behind occurrences.

Thoughts

Mental cognitions, ranging from ideas and beliefs to memories and reasoning, that occur in the human mind.