types of observation

Question 1

what are observations

Answer 1

non-experimental technique of observing behaviour

Question 2

pros of non-pps observations

Answer 2

→ researcher is more likely to remain objective whilst observing and recording behaviour
→ allows researcher to maintain an objective psychological distance from pps

Question 2

what is a non-pp observation

Answer 2

→ research method when the researcher remains separate from the pps
→ they observe and record pps without taking part

Question 3

cons of non-pp observation

Answer 3

→ pps are less likely to open up
→ researcher may also overlook certain behaviour due to lack of proximity
→ researcher has less insight

Question 3

what is pp observation

Answer 3

research method where the researcher takes part and joins the group being observed
→ pps may not realise the observer is not ‘one of them’

Question 4

pros of pps observation

Answer 4

→ researcher gets greater insight
→ researcher is unlikely to overlooks behaviours due to close proximity
→ high validity
→ experience the same situation which gives insight which increases validity

Question 5

cons of pp observations

Answer 5

→ interpretations of behaviour may become biassed
→ research can loose objectivity → can get too attached to people

Question 6

naturalistic observation meaing

Answer 6

research method where researcher observes behaviour in a natural setting

Question 7

pros of naturalistic observation

Answer 7

→ subjects behave ‘normally’ so influence of demand characteristics is unlikely
→ easy to apply in everyday life
→ high external validity

Question 8

cons of naturalistic observations

Answer 8

→ uncontrollable extraneous variables
→ difficult to replicate so it will be harder to establish cause and effect relationship between IV and DV

Question 9

what is a controlled observation

Answer 9

a type of observation that takes place in a controlled environment

Question 10

pros of controlled observation

Answer 10

→ high internal validity as researchers has high control of extraneous variables
→ easy to replicate

Question 11

cons of controlled observation

Answer 11

→ low mundane realism and ecological validity
→ unnatural behaviour
→ demand characteristics

Question 12

what is covert observation

Answer 12

pps behaviour is watched and recorded without their knowledge or consent

Question 13

pros of convert observation

Answer 13

→ no observe effects
→ valid - research and observations are more truthful due to no observer effects
→ no pp reactivity

Question 14

cons of covert observations

Answer 14

→ ethical issues, invading privacy and no informed consent

Question 15

overt observation

Answer 15

pps know they are being observed
→ the research is open about their intentions and seeks consent

Question 16

pros of overt observation

Answer 16

→ no deception
→ more ethical - consent, right to withdraw
→ easier to take notes
→ can conduct interviews

Question 17

cons of over observations

Answer 17

→ unnatural behaviour as they know they are being watched
→ demand characteristics reducing the validity