Research is a systematic attempt to answer questions through primary or secondary sources. Primary research includes case studies, which focus on individuals longitudinally, and statistical studies, such as surveys and experimental research on groups under controlled conditions. Validity in research refers to how well a study measures what it intends to - internal validity means no other variables caused the results, while external validity is how results can be generalized. The research process involves identifying a problem, constructing a hypothesis, reviewing literature, defining and controlling variables, designing a study, collecting and analyzing data, and reporting findings.