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Psychology-Research Methods > Observations > Flashcards

Observations Flashcards

1
Q

What is an observation

A

A type of research method where the researcher watches their participants to try to come to conclusions about behaviour

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2
Q

What are the 6 types of observations

A

lab, natural, overt, covert, participant, non-participant

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3
Q

What is a lab observation

A

Observation carried out in an artificial setting

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4
Q

What is a natural observation

A

Carried out in the participants own environment

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5
Q

What is overt observation

A

Observation carried out in a natural setting but participants know they are being observed

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6
Q

What is covert observation

A

Observation carried out in natural setting but participant does not know they are being observed

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7
Q

What is a participant observation

A

The researcher becomes involved in the group they are observing

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8
Q

What is non-participant observation

A

No direct contact between the observer and those being observed

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9
Q

Strengths of lab observation

A

Can be easily replicated to check reliability

High levels of control

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10
Q

Weaknesses of lab observation

A

Low ecological validity as the researcher records behaviour in an artificial environment

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11
Q

Strengths of a natural observation

A

High levels of ecological validity as the researcher records naturally occurring behaviour

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12
Q

Weaknesses of natural observation

A

Cannot be replicated to check reliability

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13
Q

Strengths of overt observation

A

It is possible to inform participants in advance and obtain informed consent

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14
Q

Weaknesses of overt observation

A

Behaviour can be distorted through investigator effects in which a participants changes their behaviour through social desirability bias

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15
Q

Strengths of covert observation

A

Investigator effects are unlikely meaning that participants’ behaviour will be genuine

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16
Q
A
16
Q

Weaknesses of covert observation

A

Less ethical as participants are not aware they are taking part and cannot give fully informed consent

17
Q

Strengths of participant observation

A

The researcher can obtain in-depth data as they are in close proximity to the participants and so are unlikely to overlook or miss any behaviours

18
Q

Weaknesses of participant observation

A

The researchers’ presence might influence the participants’ behaviour due to evaluation apprehension

19
Q

Strengths of non-participant observation

A

Investigator effects and evaluation apprehensions are less likely as the researcher is not visible

20
Q

Weaknesses of non-participant observation

A

Due to lack of proximity, the researcher might overlook or miss behaviours of interest

21
Q
A

Psychology-Research Methods (6 decks)

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