research methods: observational techniques Flashcards
What is the main purpose of observation in psychology?
To see what people do without asking them
What types of settings can observations occur in?
Natural or controlled settings
What is the benefit of using observation in research?
Allows flexibility to study complex interactions between variables
What is a naturalistic observation?
Observation in the setting where the target behaviour usually occurs
Why is it important to conduct naturalistic observations in real settings?
To study interactions in their natural context
What is a controlled observation?
Observation in a structured environment with some control over variables
What study is associated with controlled observations conducted by Mary Ainsworth?
Strange Situation studies
What is the purpose of using a two-way mirror in controlled observations?
To record data without disturbing the action
What are covert observations?
Participants are unaware they are being studied
What is a characteristic of overt observations?
Participants know their behaviour is being observed
What is participant observation?
The researcher becomes part of the group being studied
What is non-participant observation?
The researcher remains separate from the group being studied
Fill in the blank: Naturalistic observation involves watching and recording behaviour in the _______ within which it would normally occur.
[setting]
Fill in the blank: Controlled observation involves watching and recording behaviour within a _______ environment.
[structured]
True or False: Covert observation requires informed consent from participants.
False
True or False: Non-participant observation allows for more objective recording of behaviour.
True
What is the benefit of observational methods in research?
They capture actual behavior, which may be unexpected.
What is a limitation of observational methods?
Observer bias may affect interpretation.
How can observer bias be reduced?
By using more than one observer.
Can observational studies demonstrate causal relationships?
No, they cannot demonstrate causal relationships.
What is a strength of naturalistic observations?
They have high external validity and findings can often be generalized.
What is a limitation of naturalistic observations?
Lack of control makes replication difficult.
What is a benefit of controlled observations?
They allow for easier replication due to fewer confounding variables.
What are covert observations?
Participants do not know they are being watched.
What is a benefit of covert observations?
Increases internal validity of the data gathered.
What is a major ethical concern with covert observations?
Right to privacy may be violated.
What are overt observations?
Participants are aware they are being observed.
What is a drawback of overt observations?
Participants’ knowledge may influence their behavior.
demand characteristics
What is the advantage of participant observations?
Increased insight into participants’ lives.
What is a risk associated with participant observations?
Researcher may lose objectivity and adopt a local lifestyle.
What is the benefit of non-participant observations?
Maintains objective psychological distance.
What is a drawback of non-participant observations?
Loss of valuable insight gained in participant observation.
