Methods in Behavioral Research drives home foundational concepts and supports students’ mastery of the essential elements of behavioral research with a straightforward and accessible presentation. Fascinating and relatable research—from canonical studies to recent scholarship on Instagram usage and the impacts of Covid-19—engage students in exploring the methodology of research. Focused organization combined with clear and direct writing remains a hallmark of Methods in Behavioral Research: chapters follow the arc of a research investigation, from planning through conducting and presenting. The text provides a strong foundation for students both as future researchers themselves, and as critical consumers of global research studies and claims. The 15th edition, which aligns with APA 7e, foregrounds important questions of diversity, equity, and inclusion in past and future research and its assumed universal applicability.

New Features


A deep, integrated focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The authors have thoroughly revised the 15th edition with a focus on both assessing prior research and improving the diversity, equity, and inclusivity of its presentation in the text. Everything from the language used in prior research studies to the limits of its generalizability is analyzed. Research conducted with diverse people by researchers who represent the diversity of humanity is foregrounded.


APA 7e Style Resources. New, easy-to-use guides on APA 7e style formatting are provided for the title page, page and section format, citations, and the reference page.


Sample Paper. A new, fully annotated sample paper—written by an undergraduate researcher—provides an accessible example of good APA style. Annotations point to common questions and common misperceptions and connect students back to the APA Style Resources sections for additional information.


Illustrative articles. These boxes included published journal articles with questions and exercises designed to focus on chapter-related material. Several new articles have been added.


Connect resources: A wide array of assignable assets and activities within McGraw Hill’s Connect platform builds students’ understanding and confidence with behavioral research methods, including SmartBook, Concept Clips, NewsFlash, and Application-Based Activities, among others.