Observational Techniques Flashcards
What is naturalistic observation?
Watching and recording behavior in the setting where it would normally take place.
What is one strength of naturalistic observation?
High ecological validity due to high external validity, being done in an natural environment.
What is a limitation of naturalistic observation?
Low ecological validity if participants become aware they are being watched, and replication can be difficult.
What is controlled observation?
Watching and recording behavior in a structured environment, such as a lab setting.
Name one strength of controlled observation.
It allows the researcher to focus on a particular aspect of behavior with more control over extraneous and confounding variables.
What is one limitation of controlled observation?
It may lead to observing unnatural behavior since it takes place in an unnatural environment, resulting in low mundane realism and low ecological validity.
What is overt observation?
When ppts are aware that their behavior is being watched and recorded.
What is a strength of overt observation?
it is ethically acceptable as informed consent is given.
What is a limitation of overt observation?
Participants may alter their behavior, leading to unnatural behavior (demand characteristics).
What is covert observation?
When ppts are unaware that their behavior is being watched and recorded.
What is one strength of covert observation?
It records natural behavior leading to high internal validity, and removes problems of ppts reactivity.
What is one limitation of covert observations?
There are ethical issues due to no informed consent and it may invade their privacy.
What is participant observation?
The researcher is part of the group that is being observed.
Name one strength of participant observation.
It can offer more insightful data, increasing the validity of the findings.
What is one limitation of participant observation?
The researcher may lose objectivity by identifying too closely with the group, or participants may change their behavior if they realize they are being watched.
