Observational techniques Flashcards
What is an observational study?
A non-experimental technique, the researcher watches and records spontaneous/ naturalistic behaviour without manipulating the IV.
What are the different types of observations?
- Controlled
- Natural
- Overt
- Covert
What is a controlled observation?
Aspects of the environment are controlled, in an attempt to give ppts the same experience. This is often conducted in a lab setting.
Strengths of controlled observation?
- controlling variables reduces the likelihood of extraneous variables
- results likely reliable as using standardised procedures
Weaknesses of controlled observations?
- artificial world may result in unnatural behaviour
What is a naturalistic observation?
Takes place in real-world.
Strengths of naturalistic observation?
- High realism as show more natural behaviour
- external validity because more likely to be generalised
- High eco validity
Weaknesses of naturalistic observation?
- uncontrolled extraneous variables = low external validity
What is an overt observation?
Ppts are aware they are being studied
Strength of overt observation?
Ethical as ppts have informed consent
Weakness of overt observation?
DC are likely, ppts may want to show socially desirable bias
What is a covert observation?
Ppts are not aware they’re being studied
Strengths of covert observation?
No show of DC or social desirability bias
Weakness of covert observation?
More unethical as ppts not given informed consent
What is a participant observation?
Researcher joins the group being observed and takes part in the group’s activites and observations
Strengths of participant observation?
Researcher may build a rapport, more trust and comfort could lead the ppts to behaving more naturally and disclosing more
Weakness of participant observation?
Researcher can lose objectivity, interpretation of behaviour is biased, seeing only from the ppts perspective.
What is non participant observation?
Researcher is separate from the ppts, not taking part in group’s activites
Strength of non participant observation?
Researcher more likely to be objective in interpretation of the ppts behaviour
Weakness of non-participant observation?
Due to lack of trust/rapport with ppts researcher misses out on important insights and ppts may not behave naturally.
