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A laboratory experiment is a research study conducted in a highly controlled environment. Because researchers can manipulate variables and minimize outside influences, laboratory experiments typically possess high internal validity, enabling researchers to draw strong causal conclusions.

Laboratory Experiment

Internal validity indicates the degree to which an empirical study's design justifies the conclusion that changes in the independent variable directly caused the observed differences in the dependent variable. Experimental research designs typically achieve high internal validity because they involve deliberately manipulating an independent variable while rigorously controlling for extraneous variables, thereby eliminating alternative causal explanations. For instance, in the Darley and Latané experiment, the rigorous manipulation of the number of perceived bystanders isolated this independent variable as the direct cause of differences in helping behavior. In contrast, non-experimental correlational designs exhibit low internal validity; for example, a statistical relationship between regular exercise and happiness cannot confirm that exercise causes happiness, as other factors or reverse causation might explain the link.

Internal Validity

Which of the following best describes the primary characteristic and resulting advantage of a laboratory experiment?

Because researchers can manipulate variables and minimize outside influences in a highly controlled setting, a study conducted under these conditions typically possesses high ____ validity, which allows researchers to draw strong causal conclusions.

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