Observational Techniques

Question 1

What is an observation?

Answer 1

Observing actual behaviours which are subsequently scored

This technique is used to study behaviour in an ecologically valid way.

Question 2

What is a limitation of observational techniques?

Answer 2

Can’t establish cause and effect

Observational methods focus on behaviour without manipulating variables.

Question 3

What characterizes naturalistic observations?

Answer 3

Studied in a natural setting, everything is left as it would be normally, researcher does not interfere

This method aims to capture genuine behaviour.

Question 4

What are controlled observations?

Answer 4

Some variables are controlled by the researcher, participants know they are being studied, usually conducted in laboratory conditions

This method allows for more control over the environment.

Question 5

What is a strength of naturalistic observations?

Answer 5

High ecological validity

This means the findings are more likely to be applicable to real-world situations.

Question 6

What is a limitation of naturalistic observations?

Answer 6

Lack of informed consent

Participants may not be aware they are being observed.

Question 7

What is a strength of controlled observations?

Answer 7

High internal validity

This allows for more accurate conclusions about the behaviour being studied.

Question 8

What is a limitation of controlled observations?

Answer 8

Participants know they are being studied

This awareness can alter their behaviour.

Question 9

What are covert observations?

Answer 9

Participants are not aware of the observation, often using a camera or one-way mirror

This method aims to capture natural behaviour without participant bias.

Question 10

What is a limitation of covert observations?

Answer 10

Social desirability bias

Participants may behave differently if they know they are being observed.

Question 11

What are participant observations?

Answer 11

Observer joins the group being studied

This method allows for a deeper understanding of group dynamics.

Question 12

What are non-participant observations?

Answer 12

Observer watches from a distance and does not interact with the people being studied

This method maintains the natural dynamics of the group.

Question 13

What is a limitation of participant observations?

Answer 13

Might change group dynamics

The observer’s presence can influence the behaviour of the group.

Question 14

What is a limitation of non-participant observations?

Answer 14

Hard to understand interactions and dynamics

Observers may miss important contextual information.