Observational Techniques Flashcards
What are observations?
A way of seeing or listening to what people do without having to ask them
Why observations usually used?
A way of assessing the the DV
What are observational methods?
- Scientific
- Focusing on particular categories of behaviours or events
- Objective system
Why do psychologists uses observations?
- To study particular behaviours
- Study natural behaviours, where it would be unethical
What do observational studies reveal about different aspects of behaviours?
- What people say and do are very different
- Capture spontaneous, unexpected behaviour
What do observations not provide information about?
How they think/feel
What are different types of observations?
- Naturalistic
- Controlled
- Covert
- Overt
- Participant
- Non-participant
What is a naturalistic observation?
Takes place where the target behaviour would normally occur
Strengths of a naturalistic observation:
-High external validity = generalisation = high ecological validity
Limitations of a naturalistic observation:
-Low control = uncontrolled extraneous variable = more difficult to detect patterns
What is a controlled observation?
Some control/manipulation of variables including control of extraneous variables
Strengths of controlled observations:
Replicated = high internal validity = standardised procedures
Limitations of controlled observations:
Low external validity = low ecological validity
What is a covert observation?
Participants are unaware they are being studied
Strengths of covert observation:
-Reduced demand characteristics = increase validity
Limitations of covert observation:
-Ethically questionable = deception/informed consent/confidintiality
What is overt observation?
Participants are aware of being studied
Strengths of overt observation:
More ethically acceptable = no deception/ right to withdraw highlighted
Limitations of overt observations:
Increased demand characteristics = reduces the validity
What is participant observation?
When a researcher becomes part of the group they are studying
Strengths of participant observation:
Greater insight = increase in validity
Limitations of participant observation:
Loss of objectivity = personal attachment with those of studying
What is a non-participant observation?
When the researcher remains separate from the group they are studying
Strengths of non-participant observation:
More objective = increase validity
Limitation of non-participant observation:
Loss of insight = too far removed = reduces validity
