Observational Techniques

Question 1

What is a controlled observation?

Answer 1

Takes place in a highly controlled environment

Question 2

What is a naturalistic observation?

Answer 2

Takes place in people’s natural environment with no control

Question 3

What is a covert observation?

Answer 3

Takes place without the knowledge or awareness of participants

Question 4

What is an overt observation?

Answer 4

Takes place with full knowledge

Question 5

What is a participant observation?

Answer 5

Data gathered by the psychologists whilst being part of observed group

Question 6

What is a non participant observation?

Answer 6

Data gathered from a distance without psychologist being involved in observed group

Question 7

Strengths of a controlled observation?

Answer 7

• control

- easy to establish cause and effect

Question 8

Strengths of a naturalistic observation?

Answer 8

-generalisable

Question 9

Strengths of a covert observation?

Answer 9

• Valid results

- natural behaviour

Question 10

Strengths of an overt observation?

Answer 10

• ethically sound

- given consent

Question 11

Strengths of a participant observation?

Answer 11

• greater insight into behaviour

- validity high

Question 12

Strengths of a non participant observation?

Answer 12

-lack of direct involvement

Question 13

Limitations of a controlled observation?

Answer 13

-artificial

Question 14

Limitations of a naturalistic observation?

Answer 14

• no control of variables

- difficult to establish cause and effect

Question 15

Limitations of a covert observation ?

Answer 15

-lack of informed consent

Question 16

Limitations of an overt observation?

Answer 16

-not behave naturally

Question 17

Limitations of a participant observation?

Answer 17

-objectivity of observations affected

Question 18

Limitations of non participant observation?

Answer 18

-lack richness of that provided by participant observation