Observational Studies

Question 1

What are observational studies?

Answer 1

A research method where behaviour is systematically watched and recorded without manipulating variables.

Question 2

What is naturalistic observation?

Answer 2

Observation of behaviour in a participant’s natural environment where the researcher does not interfere.

Question 3

What is a controlled observation?

Answer 3

Observation carried out in a structured environment where some variables are controlled by the researcher.

Question 4

What is a covert observation?

Answer 4

An observation where participants are unaware that they are being observed.

Question 5

What is an overt observation?

Answer 5

An observation where participants know they are being observed.

Question 6

What is participant observation?

Answer 6

An observation where the researcher becomes part of the group or situation being studied.

Question 7

What is non participant observation?

Answer 7

An observation where the researcher observes behaviour without becoming involved in the situation.

Question 8

What is a strength and limitation of all observations?

Answer 8

Strength: Observations record actual behaviour rather than relying on self-report.

Limitation: Observer bias may occur if researchers interpret behaviour subjectively.

Question 9

What is a strength and limitation of naturalistic observations?

Answer 9

Strength: High ecological validity because behaviour occurs in a real-life setting.

Limitation: Lack of control over variables makes it difficult to establish cause and effect.

Question 10

What is a strength and limitation of covert observations?

Answer 10

Strength: Behaviour is more natural because participants do not know they are being observed.

Limitation: Ethical issues such as lack of informed consent.

Question 11

What is a strength and limitation of participant observations?

Answer 11

Strength: The researcher gains deeper insight into the group being studied.

Limitation: The researcher may lose objectivity or influence the behaviour of the group.