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Nonexperimental research involves studies where the researcher does not alter the independent variable or control the study environment. Instead, the researcher observes and measures variables in their natural state. The three main types of nonexperimental research are descriptive research, correlational research, and observational research.

Descriptive Research: Describes characteristics of a population or phenomenon being studied. Addresses the "what" question of a study.

Example: Nationwide study to determine prevalence of diabetes in adults. A survey would collect data on the number of adults diagnosed with diabetes, their age, gender, lifestyle factors, and geographical location. This example fits because it is a study that does not alter or manipulate any variables.

Correlational Research: Studies the relationship between two or more variables to see if an association exists. While it does not prove causation, it indicates the strength and direction of the relationship.

Example: A study that examines the relationship between sleep duration and cognitive performance in college students. The data collected would be the number of hours students sleep per night and their scores on cognitive tests. This example fits because it explores the association between sleep duration and cognitive performance without manipulating sleep patterns or testing conditions.

Observational Research: Observing and recording behaviors or events in their natural environment. There are different types of observational research based on the level of control and the degree of involvement of the researcher in the study.

Example: A researcher observes interactions among employees in a workplace to study team dynamics. They take detailed notes on communication patterns, collaboration, and conflict resolution during meetings. This example fits because the researcher is observing natural behaviors in the workplace without manipulating any variables or the environment.

A couple reasons why a researcher might conduct a nonexperimental research study are for ethical reasons or to observe variables in their natural environment. For example, it wouldn't be ethical for a researcher to alter stress levels in order to study its effects on health. Additionally, studying variables in their natural environment provides insights that are applicable to real-world scenarios.

Article:

Twenge, J. M., Joiner, T. E., Rogers, M. L., & Martin, G. N. (2018). Increases in Depressive Symptoms, Suicide-Related Outcomes, and Suicide Rates Among U.S. Adolescents After 2010 and Links to Increased New Media Screen Time.Clinical Psychological Science, 6(1), 3-17.

This article reflects a type of correlational research because it examines the relationship between increased screen time on new media and depressive symptoms, suicide-related outcomes, and suicide rates among U.S. adolescents. In this study theresearchers gathered information through surveys and public health records regarding adolescents' screen time and their mental health outcomes. They then analyzed this data to investigate potential correlations between screen time and various indicators of mental health.