observational techniques AO1 Flashcards
1
Q
give an overview of observational techniques
A
- they are an important non-experimental method.
- they provide psychologists with a way of seeing what people do without having to ask them.
- they allow researchers to study observable behaviour within a natural or controlled setting.
- allows the researcher the flexibility to study more complex interactions between variables
- observation is often used within an experiment as a way, for example, of assessing the dependant variables.
2
Q
explain what a naturalistic observation is
A
- take place in the setting or context where the target behaviour would usually occur
- all aspects of the environment are free to vary
3
Q
explain what a controlled observation is
A
- e.g. Mary Ainsworth ‘s strange situation
- for example a two-way mirror to not disturb the action
- there may be some control over the variables, including manipulating variables to observe effects and also control of confounding/extraneous variables.
4
Q
explain what a covert observation is
A
- are those in which the participants are unaware they are the focus of the study and their behaviour is being observed in secret (covertly), say from across a room a room or from a balcony (but rarely from behind a bush).
- such behaviour must be public and happening anyway if the observation is to be ethical
5
Q
explain what an overt observation is
A
- contrasts to a covert observation
- is when participants know they are being observed and have given their informed consent beforehand.
6
Q
explain what participant observations are
A
- sometimes it may be needed for the observer to be part of the group they are studying
7
Q
explain what non-participant observations are
A
- when the researcher remains separate from those they are studying and records behaviour in a more objective manner
- its sometimes the only option- e.g. a middle aged female joining in in a football game of 10 year old boys. It just wouldn’t be possible to be a participant.
