Case studies
This method of investigation involves studying one person thoroughly as opposed to studying a sample of people, but because only one person is being studied, statements of generalization to a population are extremely perilous and fraught with uncertainties. On the whole generalizations are not recommended under such circumstances and, if made at all, must be strenuously qualified to be consistent with the principles of a rational approach.
Can be a useful tool in generating hypotheses which are then investigated by other research methods such as surveys, controlled experiments, or correlational studies.
(see also: scientific approach, science, scientific methodology, pseudo-science, systematic evidence, anecdotal evidence, (conceptual) models, operational definition, critical thinking, theory (scientific), falsifiability, testability) .
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