Theory and Methods Topic 5 - observations

Question 1

Non-participant observation

Answer 1

The researcher observes the group without taking part e.g. using a two way mirror to observe children playing. Often the participants will not be aware they are being observed (this can raise ethical issues) allowing researchers to observe people in their normal setting and avoid Hawthorne Effect

Question 2

Participant observation

Answer 2

The researcher joins in the group/community participating in the activities over a period of time and tries to become accepted

Question 3

Covert observation

Answer 3

The study is carried out ‘under cover’ with the researchers’ real identity and purpose concealed from the group being studied. The researcher takes on a false identity, usually becoming one of the group, to avoid disruption to the group’s normal behaviour

Question 4

Overt observation

Answer 4

The researcher asks for permission/consent beforehand and makes their true purpose known to the group and is open about their research and aims before conducting research

Question 5

Stage 1 of participant observations (two theorists)

Answer 5

Getting out:
The researcher needs to gain entry to the group (some easier than others)
- Making contact: this can depend on personal skills, having connections or chance. Fairhurst (1977) found herself hospitalised and used the opportunity to conduct a study on being a patient
- Acceptance: the researcher needs to win trust and acceptance of the group. Griffin (1962) used medication and sun lamp treatments to change his skin colour while researching racism

Question 6

Stage 2 of participant observations (two theorists)

Answer 6

Staying in:
- ‘Going native’ is one potential problem of participant observations which means getting involved with the group. Punch (1979) found that whilst trying to be accepted by the Amsterdam police he was observing he found himself acting as a ‘policeman’ himself

• Venkatesh (2009), took part in beating up the boyfriend of an abused teenager. He used overt participant observation, being able to become accepted by the gang members

Question 7

Stage 3 of participant observations (one theorist)

Answer 7

Getting out:
- Poses issues such as leaving the group without damaging relationships and becoming detached enough to write an impartial and accurate account.
- Patrick (1973) whilst covertly researching a Glasgow gang, was so disturbed by the violence he abandoned the study
- Some observers feel they are prevented from disclosing everything about the group because of loyalty and fear

Question 8

Practical advantages of participant observations (2, one theorist)

Answer 8

1. Flexibility - much more flexible than questionnaires and interviews because it doesn’t require a set list of questions
2. Sometimes the only way to study deviant groups - Yablonsky (1973) points out that a teenage gang is likely to see researchers who come armed with questionnaires as unwelcome representatives of authority