Year: 2002 Source: Archives of Suicide Research, v.6, no.1, (2002), p.5-14 SIEC No: 20021330

Wilhelm Wundt’s distinction between experimental methods appropriate for understanding simple processes & naturalistic methods appropriate for understanding complex processes is shown to be reflected throughout the history of research methods. Experimental methods are illustrated through the work of logical positivists, operationists & behaviorists. Naturalistic methods are illustrated through the work of applied psychologists & clinicians. Wundt’s distinction is also reflected in the contrasting approaches of staticians like R. A. Fisher & Lee J. Cronbach. (48 refs)