Relying on to Explain Behavior - Research Paper Example

Applied research points to the direction in which a resolution to a problem can be found. On the other hand, in basic research, the aim of scientists is to test formulated theories and fundamental principles. Therefore, applied research will gather more information and accumulate knowledge (Taylor, 2005).

In psychology, the idea behind relying, on research, to explain behavior is because research is scientific and systematic. This means that scientific and systematic research yields accurate, valid, and reliable results, which best explains the behavior.

Moreover, research is practical and leaves no room for speculations (Khan, 2011).
In scientific explanations, experiments and tests must be employed when a particular theory or phenomenon is being explained. This means that a thorough and systematic procedure is followed with the aim of determining the truth behind a theory or a phenomenon. Scientific explanations are based on evidence and proof. Contrarily, in non-scientific explanations, scientific methods such as conducting experiments and tests are not employed when trying to explain an occurrence; explanations are only superficial and cannot be proved (Punch, 2005).

In qualitative research, data analysis is not statistical; meaning, the research is conducted with the objective of defining the problem and formulating a hypothesis, which is used when conducting quantitative research. However, in quantitative research, the objective is the quantification of data and generalization of results (Taylor, 2005).