Which of the following is an example of a non-experimental research design?

A survey study is a prime example of a non-experimental research design because it involves collecting data from participants without manipulating any variables. This approach typically uses questionnaires or interviews to gather information on people's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Since there is no intervention or controlled conditions, researchers cannot establish causal relationships between variables; they can only observe correlations or trends.

In contrast, field experiments, randomized controlled trials, and laboratory experiments all involve some level of manipulation and control over variables, allowing researchers to assess cause-and-effect relationships. Field experiments take place in natural settings but still involve manipulation, while randomized controlled trials are designed to minimize bias in evaluating the effects of interventions. Laboratory experiments are conducted in controlled environments to systematically test hypotheses.

Thus, the nature of a survey study distinguishes it as a non-experimental design, as it relies on observational methods rather than experimental manipulation.