Observations Flashcards
What is an observation?
Where a researcher observes a situation and records what happens, but doesn’t manipulate an IV
What is a naturalistic observation?
Observing people in an environment thats natural for them. Looking at behaviour that’s spontaneously occurring.
e.g. might look at children playing in the park.
What are the strengths of a naturalistic observation?
No demand characteristics
High ecological validity
What are the weaknesses of a naturalistic observation?
Less reliable - hard to replicate
What is a controlled observation?
Researcher does manipulate some variables. Carried out in laboratory-style situations.
e.g. Milgram’s study
What are the strengths of a controlled observation?
Replicable
Collect quantitative data
What are the weaknesses of a controlled observation?
Behaviour is less likely to be natural as participant knows they are being observed - demand characteristics
What is participant observation?
Researcher gets involved with the everyday life of the group that want to observe.
e.g. Rosenhan
What are the strengths of participant observation?
Gain more insight - increase validity
What are the weaknesses of participant observation?
May lose objectivity
What is non-participant observation?
Researcher observes the group from outside the group, don’t attempt to join in.
e.g. Bandura
What are the strengths of non-participant observation?
Objectivity
What are the weaknesses of non-participant observation?
Hard to gain insight into behaviour observing
What is a covert observation?
Where the group being observed aren’t aware they are being observed.
e.g. Bandura, Rosenhan, Sherif
What are the strengths of a covert observation?
Natural behaviour - no demand characteristics
