Introductory Psychology CLEP Prep Practice Exam

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Prepare for the CLEP Psychology Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question comes with hints and explanations to help you succeed. Master the content and pass your exam!

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What type of research study is the most difficult to interpret and explain in terms of cause and effect?

Naturalistic observation
Case study
Retrospective study
Correlational study

The correct answer is: Correlational study

Correlational studies are inherently difficult to interpret and explain in terms of cause and effect because they only show a relationship or correlation between variables, but they do not establish a specific cause and effect relationship. This means that even if two variables are strongly correlated, it does not necessarily mean that one causes the other. The other options, naturalistic observation, case study, and retrospective study, all involve more direct observation or manipulation of variables, making it easier to establish a cause and effect relationship. Therefore, the other options are incorrect because they are not as difficult to interpret and explain in terms of cause and effect as correlational studies.