Observational techniques

• Naturalistic Observation- takes place in the real world such as places participants will spend their time in
• Naturalistic Observation Strength:

  • high realism
  • external validity/ generalisable
• Naturalistic Observation Weakness:

  • uncontrolled extraneous variables
  • low internal validity
• Controlled Observation- aspects of environment controlled in an attempt to give participants the same experience
• Controlled Observation Strength:

  • reduces extraneous variables
  • results are likely reliable (result of standardised procedures)
• Controlled Observation Weakness:

  • artificial
• Overt Observations- participants can see researcher (aware)
• Overt Observations Strength:

  • informed consent
• Overt Observations Weakness:

  • demand characteristics
  • socially desirable bias
• Cover Observations- participants are not aware of being observed
• Cover Observations Strength:

  • free from demand characteristics or socially desirable bias
• Cover Observations Weakness:

  • unethical