Which statement describes the purpose of experimental research in organizational behavior?

• A. To describe phenomena in depth without manipulation.
• B. To test hypotheses under controlled conditions.
• C. To measure the strength of associations between variables.
• D. To capture complex real-world contexts.

Answer: (B)

Experimental research in organizational behavior focuses on testing hypotheses about cause and effect by manipulating an independent variable and keeping other factors constant. This controlled setup lets researchers determine whether changes in the manipulated factor produce systematic changes in the outcome, supporting causal inferences. That’s why the statement describing testing hypotheses under controlled conditions is the best fit. Descriptive descriptions (without manipulation) and studies that measure associations without control cannot establish causality, and attempts to study real-world complexity often sacrifice the same level of control needed to draw causal conclusions.