An empirical study is based on observation, investigation, or experiment rather than just theory or opinion.
Important: The authors are the ones who actually conduct the research and collect the data.
Example: Westervelt, H. J., Bruce, J. M., & Faust, M. A. (2016). Distinguishing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies using cognitive and olfactory measures. Neuropsychology, 30(3), 304-311. doi:10.1037/neu0000230
💡 Tip: If the article has Methods + Results + collected data, it’s almost certainly empirical.
Article A: https://doi-org.hc.opal-libraries.org/10.1016/j.aap.2009.06.021
Abstract C: https://research-ebsco-com.hc.opal-libraries.org/linkprocessor/plink?id=1d869f3c-c02f-3f14-87cc-4cdd72fd6b4f
Abstract D: https://research-ebsco-com.hc.opal-libraries.org/linkprocessor/plink?id=2e5b57d9-ac7d-3792-8a2c-5c6f9ca3b9f9
💡 It helps you find the type of study you need, like empirical research, without sifting through unrelated articles. See EBSCO’s full list of PsycINFO methodology limiters and definitions.
Search your topic > Click Methodology in the left menu > Select the study type (e.g., Empirical Study).
🍎 Indexes psychology articles and book chapters published worldwide from 1887 to the present. Great for finding peer-reviewed, empirical research across many psychology topics. Watch Tutorials ▶️
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