Which of the following is a common research method used in psychology?

Surveys represent a common research method in psychology due to their effectiveness in collecting data from a large population about attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. This method allows researchers to gather quantifiable information, which can then be analyzed statistically to draw meaningful conclusions about various psychological phenomena. Surveys can be administered in various forms—written, online, or face-to-face—and are particularly valuable for studying subjects such as social attitudes or mental health issues, where direct observation may not be feasible or practical.

While other methods like observational studies and interactions with animals also play important roles in psychological research, surveys are especially prevalent because they can cover a broad range of topics quickly and efficiently, offering insights into how individuals think and feel on a wide scale. Historical analysis, although useful in certain contexts, is not as commonly utilized as a primary research method for gathering current data on psychological trends.