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Paper 3 - Psychology > Observational techniques > Flashcards

Observational techniques Flashcards

1
Q

When are observational techniques useful?

A

Studying natural behaviour

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2
Q

Types of observation

A
  • Controlled
  • Naturalistic
  • Covert
  • Overt
  • Participant
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3
Q

Controlled observation

A

Highly controlled environment = lab

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4
Q

Naturalistic observation

A

Observing people in their natural environment without control over variables

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5
Q

Strengths of controlled observation? 2 marks

A
  • High level of control

- Easier to establish a cause and effect relationship

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6
Q

Limitations of controlled observation? 1 mark

A
  • The environment is artificial = chance of not getting natural behaviour
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7
Q

Strengths of naturalistic observation? 1 mark

A
  • High degree of natural behaviour = findings generalized to everyday life
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8
Q

Limitations of naturalistic observation? 1 mark

A
  • No control of variables = difficult to establish cause and effect relationships
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9
Q

Covert observation

A

Observation that takes place without the knowledge or awareness of ppts

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10
Q

Overt observation

A

Observation that takes place with the full knowledge or awareness of ppts

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11
Q

Strength of covert observation? 1 mark

A
  • More valid results from ppts - natural behaviour is being observed.
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12
Q

Limitation of covert observation? 1 mark

A
  • Lack of informed consent means there are ethical issues
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13
Q

Strength of overt observation? 1 mark

A
  • Ethically sound
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14
Q

Limitation of overt observation? 1 mark

A
  • Ppts make not behave in a natural way
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15
Q

Participant observation

A

Data gathered by psychologists whilst being part of the observed group or situation

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16
Q

Non-participant observation

A

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

17
Q

Strength of participant observation? 1 mark

A
  • Greater insights into behaviour are gained by being part of the group = increase validity
18
Q

Limitation of participant observation? 1 mark

A
  • Objectivity of observations are affected by being part of the group
19
Q

Strength of non-participant observation? 1 mark

A
  • Greater objectivity = lack of direct involvement
20
Q

Limitation of non-participant observation? 1 mark

A
  • Data lacks richness - feelings and emotions

Paper 3 - Psychology (24 decks)

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