What type of research focuses on describing phenomena and relationships without manipulating variables?

Descriptive research is focused on providing a detailed account of phenomena and relationships without intervening or manipulating variables. This type of research aims to capture the current status of a subject matter, often involving observation, case studies, surveys, or other methodologies that describe characteristics or behaviors in their natural context.

In descriptive research, there is no attempt to influence outcomes or establish cause-and-effect relationships; rather, it seeks to paint a comprehensive picture of what exists in a particular setting. This can include things like the prevalence of a condition, patterns seen in a patient population, or characteristics associated with a specific health phenomenon.

In contrast, experimental research involves manipulation of variables to determine cause-and-effect relationships. Quasi-experimental research, while similar to experimental in seeking to establish relationships, lacks random assignment to treatment and control groups. Correlational research explores relationships between variables but may imply some form of association rather than merely describing phenomena, and it often looks at the strength and direction of those relationships without manipulation.

Overall, the nature of descriptive research makes it essential for understanding existing conditions, serving as a foundation for deeper investigation and hypothesis generation in future studies.