Observational techniques Flashcards
What is an observation in psychological research?
Researchers watching and recording behaviour as it happens.
What is a controlled observation?
An observation conducted in a controlled environment where variables are managed.
What are the advantages of controlled observations?
They reduce the effects of extraneous variables and provide reliable results offering high internal validity.
What is a major weakness of controlled observations?
The artificial environment may not reflect participants’ natural behaviour.
What is a naturalistic observation?
An observation conducted in the participants’ normal environment.
What is an advantage of naturalistic observations?
They have high realism and findings often have ecological validity.
What is a weakness of naturalistic observations?
The lack of control over variables may introduce unknown extraneous factors.
What is an overt observation?
An observation where participants are aware they are being observed.
What is an ethical advantage of overt observations?
Participants can give informed consent.
What is a weakness of overt observations?
Participants may change their behaviour due to demand characteristics.
What is a covert observation?
An observation where participants are unaware they are being observed.
What is a strength of covert observations?
They can capture natural behaviour increasing validity.
What is a weakness of covert observations?
They may be unethical due to the lack of informed consent.
What is a participant observation?
An observation where the researcher becomes involved in the activities of the participants.
What is an advantage of participant observations?
The researcher gains first-hand knowledge and may build rapport with participants.
