1/4

FACTORS INFLUENCING OBSERVATION ACCURACY

Factors Related to the Observer

• Physical Factors
    - Degree of sensory acuity
    - State of health

• Psychosocial Factors
    - Selective Perception: Biased observation influenced by awareness and life experiences.
    - Life Space: Factors affecting behavior (environment, goals, thoughts).
    - Impact of familial, educational, and cultural backgrounds on individual behavior.

• Cognitive-Affective Factors
    - Learning and thinking capabilities.
    - Emotional control and defenses important for helpers.

• Observational Skills
    - Developed through self-observations and self-reports, crucial for enhancing clients’ self-awareness.

Factors Related to the Location of Observation

• Psychoecological Factors
    - Influence of surroundings on individual behavior.

• Interviewer's Office
    - Factors: Interruptions, furniture arrangement, mechanics of the setting.

• Agency's Functions
    - Priorities and physical location impact observations.

• Other Relational Factors
    - Interactions with others in the agency.
    - Availability of specialized services affecting behavior.

Factors Related to the Person or Group Observed

• Racial and Ethnic Differences

• Age Differences
    - Factors causing ageism:
      - Outdated definitions of old age.
      - Economic difficulties.
      - Youth's memories and identification processes.

• Sex Differences

• Ability and Disability Differences

• Socioeconomic and Sociopolitical Differences