Types of Observation

• difference between naturalistic & controlled observations

  naturalistic is in a setting which it would normally occur but controlled is in a structured/controlled environment
• +/- of naturalistic observations

  + high external validity

  - replication is difficult due to lack of control
• +/- of controlled observations

  + more control of extraneous variables - high internal validity

  - lacks external validity
• difference between covert & overt observations

  covert is when Ps don't know they are being watched but overt the Ps know about the research
• +/- of covert observations

  + data is more valid

  - ethical concerns
• +/- of overt observations


  + more ethical

  - knowledge of research may influence Ps behaviour
• difference between participant & non-participant

  participant is where the research is invloved in the research but non-participant is where the research just observes
• +/- of participant observations

  + greater validity

  - may lose objectivity - 'going native
• +/- of non-participant observations

  + research remains objective

  - lose valuable insight gained in participant observation