In a famous case study, researchers examined a railroad foreman named Phineas Gage who survived after an iron tamping rod was driven through his skull, damaging much of his left frontal lobe. Before the accident, Gage was described as responsible, hardworking, and well-liked. After the accident, friends reported he became impulsive, profane, and unable to follow through on plans. Researchers later reconstructed the path of the rod using his preserved skull.
The Gage case best illustrates which research method?
- A
Correlational survey
- B
Naturalistic observation
- Ccheck_circle
Case study
- D
Double-blind experiment
Explanation
A case study is an in-depth investigation of one individual or small group, often used when a condition is rare. Naturalistic observation involves watching behavior in natural settings without intervention; experiments require manipulation; surveys involve self-report.