Observational techniques

What is a naturalistic observation?

Takes place in a setting where the target behaviour would usually occur

What are controlled observations used for?

Controlling aspects of the situation to prevent confounding/extraneous variables - eg camera or two way mirror

What is a covert observation?

Participants are unaware they are the focus of study and their behaviour is studied in secret

What is an overt observation?

Participants know their behaviour is being observed and have given their informed consent beforehand.

What are participant observations?

Researcher joins participants to get first-hand account

What are non-participant observations?

Researcher remains separate from those they are studying, behaving more objectively

What is a strength of observation?

Capturing what people actually do, which may be unexpected

What is a limitation of behaviour?

Observer bias - observer’s interpretation of a situation may be affected by their expectations.

What is a strength of naturalistic observations?

High external validity - findings can usually be generalised to everyday life as we study behaviour in an environment where it usually occurs

What is a limitation of naturalistic observations?

Replication is usually difficult because there is a lack of control over the situation - confounding/extraneous variables as well

What is a strength of controlled observations?

Less confounding/extraneous variables

What is a limitation of controlled observations?

Findings cannot be applied to everyday life

What is a strength of covert observations?

Participants not knowing they are being watched removes demand characteristics - all behaviour will be natural - increased internal validity.

What is a limitation of covert observations?

Unethical - may violate right to privacy

What is a strength of overt observations?

More ethical

What is a limitation of overt observations?

People knowing they are being observed might lead to demand characteristics

What is a strength of participant observations?

Researcher experiences situation like participant does, giving them an increased insight

What is a limitation of participant observations?

Researchers may identify too strongly with participants and lose objectivity.

What is a strength of non-participant observations?

Allows researcher to maintain an objective psychological distance from participants

What is a limitation of non-participant observations?

Lose valuable insight as they are too far removed