observational techniques

Question 1

naturalistic observation

Answer 1

watching and recording behaviour in the setting in which it would normally occur

Question 2

advantage and disadvantage of naturalistic observations

Answer 2

+ high ecological validity as it’s recorded whilst happens happens

• Lack of control over extraneous variables

Question 3

Controlled observation

Answer 3

Watching and recording behaviour within a structured environment so is some variables are controlled

Question 4

Advantages and disadvantages of controlled observation

Answer 4

+ high control over the environment means it’s easy to replicate

• demand characteristics

Question 5

Participant observation

Answer 5

Researcher becomes a member of the group whose behaviour they are watching a recording

Question 6

Advantages and disadvantages of participant observation

Answer 6

+ high ecological validity and very detailed

• difficult to replicate

Question 7

non participant observation

Answer 7

researcher remain outside of the group whose behaviour there watching and recording

Question 8

Covert observation

Answer 8

participant behaviour is watched and recorded without their consent and knowledge
(thknk of co, covered, concealed)

Question 9

advantages and disadvantages of covert observation

Answer 9

+ high validity as behaviour is normal

• unethical lack of consent

Question 10

Overt observation

Answer 10

Participants behaviour is watched and recorded with their knowledge and consent

Question 11

Advantages and disadvantages of overt observation

Answer 11

+ more ethical, consent given

• low validity, people may act differently if they know they’re being observed