observational techniques Flashcards
importance of observation
provide psychologists with a way of seeing what people do without having to ask them (self-report method). this allows researchers to study observable behaviour within a natural or controlled setting. this allows a researcher the flexibility of the study more complex interactions between variables
what type of method is observation
non-experimental method
how can observation be used in an experiment
assessing the dependent variable
naturalistic observation
watching and recording the behaviour in the setting within which it would normally occur. all aspects of the environment are free to vary
controlled observation
watching and recording behaviour within a structured environment such as by a two-way mirror. some control over variables such as manipulating variables to observe effects and control confounding/extraneous variables
covert observation
participants behaviour is being watched and recorded without their knowledge and consent. such behaviour must be public and happening anyway for the observation to be ethical
participant observation
researcher becomes part of the group they are working with
non-participant observation
researcher remains outside the group they are watching and recording so records behaviour in a more objective manner
observation strengths
-benefit of capturing what people actually do as people do not often act the way they say they would do so gives a special insight into behaviour
observation limitations
-observer bias as the observer’s interpretation of what a situation may be affected by their expectations –> may be reduced by using more than one observer
-cannot demonstrate casual relationships –> though observational techniques can be used in experiments and aid detecting cause and effect relationships
naturalistic observation strengths
-high external validity as findings can often be generalised to everyday life. this is due to behaviour being studied within the environment it would normally occur
naturalistic observation limitations
-lack of control makes replication difficult
-there may be uncontrolled or confounding/extraneous variables that may make it more difficult to judge any pattern of behaviour
controlled observations strengths
-replication easier as confounding-extraneous variables are less of a factor
controlled observation limitations
-findings produced may not be readily applied to everyday life
covert observation strengths
-participants do not know they are being watched so removes the problem of demand characteristics which increases internal validity
