observations 2

Question 1

define covert observation

Answer 1

undisclosed observation as the participants do not know their behavior is being observed

Question 2

advantages of a covert observation

Answer 2

• Increases validity as participants aren’t aware of being observed, they are more likely to act naturally.
• Fewer demand characteristics as the participant isn’t aware of the researcher = less chance of them changing their behavior to fit in with the researcher’s expectations.

Question 3

disadvantages of a covert observation

Answer 3

• creates ethical issues as the participant has not consented to be observed = difficult to follow other ethics such as the right to withdraw, debrief, etc.
• If the participant becomes aware of the researcher’s presence, they may change their behavior, thus decreasing validity.

Question 4

define participant observation

Answer 4

where the researcher actually joins the group or takes part in the situation they are observing

Question 5

advantages of participant observation

Answer 5

• Only way to observe some behaviours i.e. cults/gangs
• Greater accuracy and detail as the participant is involved in the behaviour = researcher to make more valid conclusions about behaviour as they have greater insight and perspective

Question 6

disadvantages of participant observation

Answer 6

It can be difficult to get time/privacy for recording. For example, with covert observations researchers can’t take notes openly as this would blow their cover. This means they have to wait until they are alone and rely on their memory. This is a problem as they may forget details and are unlikely to remember direct quotations.

• researcher becomes too involved they may lose objectivity and become biased. There is always the danger that we will “see” what we expect (or want) to see. This is a problem as they could selectively report information instead of noting everything they observe. Thus reducing the validity of their data.
  The presence of the researcher can influence behaviour, reducing validity

Question 7

define non-participant observation

Answer 7

Observation study where the researcher does not join the group or take part in the situation they are observing.

Question 8

advantages of non-participant observation

Answer 8

• Easier to remain objective as the observer is away from distractions and can remain focused – increasing validity.
• The researcher has less influence on behavior therefore chances of researcher effect are reduced. The participant is likely to be less influenced by the researcher.

Question 9

disadvantages of non-participant observation

Answer 9

• If participants are unaware that they are being observed as part of non-participant observation, it can raise ethical issues such as consent and the right to withdraw.
• Less detail and accuracy as the researcher is at a distance from the participants, therefore, some behaviors may be interpreted or recorded inaccurately – reducing validity.