Observational techniques

• Naturalistic observations

  • take place where the target behaviour would usually occur

  + high external validity , - low internal validity
• controlled observations

  • when a behaviour is watched and recorded in a structured environment
  • variables can be manipulated to observe effects and control of extraneous variables

  + high external validity, - low internal validity (although some extraneous variables can be controlled)
• covert observation

  • participants' behaviour is watched without their consent

  low participant reactivity but ethically questionable
• overt observation

  • participants' behaviour is watched and recorded with their consent

  behaviour may be affected
• participant observation

  • researcher becomes part of the group whose behaviour they are watching and recording

  increased external validity
• non participant observation

  • researcher remains outside of the group whose behaviour they are watching and recording

  more objectivity but less insight