Solving Puzzles in Behavioural Science: Why Use Multiple Methods?

Ever wondered if one thing causes another? This is a big question in behavioural and mental health research. These fields are full of complex stuff, making it tough to figure out what causes what. Let’s talk about 'triangulation. ' Imagine it like solving a mystery with different tools, each giving a bit of the answer. Use many methods, and you’re less likely to be wrong. But here’s the thing: how you understand the results can vary. There are no set rules, and that’s where this guide comes in. We’re here to make it clearer so you can better understand past studies and design new ones.Triangulation is like a superpower for researchers. It helps them look at a problem from different angles. Each method might have its own biases, but together, they paint a clearer picture. Think of it like watching a movie from different seats in the theatre. Some might miss certain details, but together, you get the full story. In behavioural and psychiatric fields, this approach helps sort out the tricky causal questions. If multiple methods point to the same cause, it's more likely to be true. But remember, different fields might interpret these results differently. There’s no one-size-fits-all rulebook. The goal here is to provide some clarity. We want to help researchers make sense of the triangulation studies that have already been done. Plus, we want to give them tips to design better studies in the future. It’s all about making our understanding of complex issues stronger and more reliable.