Research Methods in Psychology

Ex-Post Facto Research

IGNOU|MAPC 1st Year|MPC 005|Block 2, Unit 6

Brijesh Chaturvedi

B.Tech in CSE & Masters in Psychology

INTRODUCTION

Definition & Meaning of Ex-Post Facto Research

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📖 "After the Fact"

Ex-post facto translates to "after the fact." It is a type of non-experimental research in which the independent variable (IV) has already occurred naturally, and the researcher studies its effect on the dependent variable (DV) retrospectively.

CHARACTERISTICS

Characteristics & 3 Key Conditions

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1. Lack of IV Control

The independent variable cannot be manipulated because it has already occurred or is inherently unmanipulable.

2. Retrospective Nature

Researchers start with the observed effect (DV) and look backwards in time to determine the probable cause (IV).

3. Post Hoc Fallacy

Risk of assuming that just because A preceded B, A caused B. Must control for extraneous variables.

METHODOLOGY

8 Sequential Steps in Conducting Ex-Post Facto Research

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1. Define Problem

2. Literature Review

3. Formulate Hypothesis

4. Identify Variables

5. Select Sample

6. Choose Design

7. Collect Data

8. Analyze Data

EVALUATION

Advantages & Weaknesses of Ex-Post Facto Research

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Advantages

Useful when IV cannot be artificially manipulated (e.g., trauma, brain damage).
More realistic context than lab experiments.
Exploratory insights for future experimental designs.

Weaknesses

Lack of random assignment and variable control.
Cannot firmly establish cause-and-effect relationships.
High risk of spurious correlations due to unmeasured confounding variables.

CONNECT & LEARN

Thank You for Learning with Us!

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Brijesh Chaturvedi

B.Tech in CSE and Masters in Psychology

Host & Educator • Slice of Mind

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