What type of research method did Dr. Smith use to study the brother and sister?

The choice of a case study as the research method used by Dr. Smith indicates that the focus was on an in-depth analysis of the brother and sister in a particular context. Case studies are valuable for providing detailed qualitative insights into individual experiences, behaviors, and psychological processes. They allow researchers to explore unique familial dynamics, interactions, and individual characteristics in a comprehensive manner, often collecting data through interviews, observations, and various forms of assessment.

In this scenario, since the research involves a specific brother and sister, it suggests that Dr. Smith was likely investigating particular aspects of their development, relationships, or psychological factors, which is a hallmark of the case study method. This approach is particularly effective in developmental psychology, where understanding the nuances of personal experiences can yield rich information about growth and maturation.

Other research methods, such as longitudinal studies or experimental studies, involve different focuses, like studying a group over time or manipulating variables to assess cause-and-effect relationships, which may not suit the detailed and individualized focus on the siblings. In contrast, cross-sectional studies examine various subgroups at one moment in time, which may oversimplify the complexities of the sibling relationship. Thus, a case study is the most appropriate method for Dr. Smith’s research on the brother and