How do observational designs differ from experimental designs?

Observational designs are characterized by their non-interventionist approach, meaning researchers do not manipulate independent variables as they would in experimental designs. This lack of manipulation allows researchers to observe and record behavior in natural settings without trying to influence the outcomes.

One significant aspect of observational research is the challenge it faces in controlling extraneous variables—these are variables other than the independent variable that could affect the dependent variable. Since observational studies do not employ random assignment or controlled manipulation, they cannot effectively isolate the impact of the independent variable from other influencing factors. This limitation can affect the internal validity of the findings, as it is harder to establish cause-and-effect relationships within observational designs.

In contrast, experimental designs involve the manipulation of independent variables and often include a control group to minimize the influence of extraneous variables. They can provide stronger evidence for causal relationships thanks to random assignment and control over the research environment.

Thus, the distinction highlighted here reflects the inherent nature of observational designs and their challenges regarding variable control, underscoring why the selected answer accurately captures a primary difference between the two methodologies.