What is the primary purpose of experimental research?

The primary purpose of experimental research is to explain behavior through a cause-and-effect framework. This method allows researchers to manipulate one or more independent variables while controlling for other factors, enabling them to identify how changes in these variables directly influence specific outcomes or dependent variables. By establishing a controlled environment, experimental research can isolate variables and determine relationships, thereby providing insight into causal mechanisms.

In contrast, methods like observational research focus on describing behaviors as they occur naturally without manipulation, while surveys aggregate self-reported data on attitudes or experiences but do not explore causal relationships. The emphasis in experimental research is on establishing clear causality, which distinguishes it from these other approaches.