Introduction

Title: Causal Research Design: With and

Without Control, Before and After
 Control in
Causal Research
Design
Control refers to the process of minimizing the influence of confounding variables
to isolate the effects of the independent variable.
By including a control group, researchers can compare outcomes between
treatment and control groups.
Control helps to ensure that observed effects can be attributed to the
independent variable rather than other factors.
Before-and-After Comparison

The before-and-after comparison involves collecting data on the

dependent variable before and after the implementation of the
independent variable.
This comparison allows researchers to observe and analyze the
changes in the dependent variable that can be attributed to the
independent variable.
Experimental Design
Experimental design is the gold standard for establishing causal
relationships.
In this design, researchers manipulate the independent variable and
randomly assign participants to treatment and control groups.
Example: Investigating the effect of a new drug on blood pressure by
randomly assigning participants to receive the drug or a placebo.
Quasi-Experimental Design
Quasi-experimental design is used when randomization is challenging or
impossible.
Groups are selected based on pre-existing characteristics or natural
circumstances.
Example: Assessing the impact of a smoking cessation program on health
outcomes by comparing participants who enroll voluntarily with a non-
enrolled control group.
Pre-Post Design
In a pre-post design, researchers collect data on the dependent variable
before and after implementing the independent variable, without a
control group.
Example: Evaluating the effectiveness of a stress management workshop
by comparing participants' stress levels before and after attending the
workshop.