Ovservational Studies Flashcards
What is the definition of a naturalistic observation?
Naturalistic observation is a research method where the observer watches subjects in their natural environment without interference.
True or False: A structured observation involves manipulating the environment.
True
Fill in the blank: In _______ observation, the researcher has control over the environment and can manipulate variables.
structured
What is one advantage of naturalistic observation?
It provides high ecological validity as behaviors are observed in real-life settings.
Identify one limitation of structured observation.
It may lack ecological validity as the setting is artificial.
Multiple Choice: Which type of observation is characterized by the observer becoming part of the group being studied? A) Naturalistic B) Participant C) Structured D) Non-participant
B) Participant
What is a key feature of non-participant observation?
The observer does not interact with the subjects and remains detached from the study.
True or False: Observations can be both qualitative and quantitative.
True
What is the main goal of observational research?
To gather data on behavior in a systematic way.
Fill in the blank: In _______ observations, the researcher records behaviors using a predetermined checklist.
structured
Multiple Choice: Which observation method is likely to produce more subjective data? A) Structured B) Naturalistic C) Non-participant D) Participant
D) Participant
What is one ethical consideration in observational research?
Informed consent may be necessary if subjects are aware they are being observed.
Identify a situation where naturalistic observation would be inappropriate.
When studying illegal or unethical behaviors.
True or False: Observational studies can establish cause and effect relationships.
False
What is the difference between overt and covert observation?
Overt observation is when subjects know they are being watched; covert observation is when they do not.
Multiple Choice: Which observation method is less likely to introduce observer bias? A) Participant B) Naturalistic C) Structured D) All of the above
B) Naturalistic
What does ‘observer bias’ refer to?
The tendency for the observer’s expectations to influence their interpretation of the behavior.
Fill in the blank: _______ observation allows researchers to gather data without influencing the subjects.
Non-participant
What type of data is primarily collected in qualitative observations?
Descriptive data that captures the qualities of the behavior.
True or False: Structured observations are always conducted in a laboratory setting.
False
What is a common method of recording data in observational studies?
Field notes or video recordings.
Multiple Choice: Which type of observation is most likely to be influenced by the presence of the observer? A) Naturalistic B) Participant C) Non-participant D) None of the above
B) Participant
What does ‘ecological validity’ refer to?
The extent to which research findings can be generalized to real-world settings.
Fill in the blank: The main purpose of _______ observation is to gather detailed insights into social interactions.
participant
What is one way to reduce observer bias?
Using multiple observers and comparing their findings.
