Covert Unstructured Non-Participant

• What is a theoretical advantage of covert unstructured non-participant observation according to interpretivists?

  High validity
• How does covert observation minimize the Hawthorne effect?

  Participants are unaware they are being studied, leading them to act naturally
• What example did Humphrey's provide to illustrate the effectiveness of covert observation?

  He studied gay men's sexual encounters in public toilets
• Why does being a non-participant observer increase validity?

  There is less chance of the researcher influencing the observed behavior
• What practical advantage does covert observation provide regarding distance?

  It allows for accurate observations without concern for participant effects
• Why are participants unaware of the study in covert observation?

  To prevent them from altering their behavior
• What is a disadvantage of covert non-participant observation regarding participant assistance?

  Researchers cannot ask for help from participants
• What challenge might researchers face when trying to find a suitable position to observe from?

  Participants cannot assist them in finding a position
• What ethical issue arises from the lack of informed consent in covert observation?

  It leads to deception and exploitation of participants
• What specific ethical concern did Humphrey's encounter in his study?

  He used participants for sexual pleasure numbers without consent
• What should researchers do to ethically conduct a study involving covert observation?

  Seek informed consent and fully debrief participants
• What are the theoretical advantages of covert unstructured non-participant observation?

  • High validity
  • Minimizes the Hawthorne effect
  • Less researcher influence on behavior
• What are the practical advantages of covert unstructured non-participant observation?

  • Maintains distance for accurate observations
  • Participants are unaware of the observer
  • Reduced chance of being discovered
• What are the disadvantages of covert unstructured non-participant observation?

  • Unable to ask for help from participants
  • Difficulty in finding suitable observation positions
• What ethical issues are associated with covert unstructured non-participant observation?

  • Lack of informed consent
  • Deception and exploitation of participants