observational techniques

• naturalistic observation is carried out in an everyday setting where the investigator merely observes the behaviour
• controlled observation is when behaviour is observed under conditions where certain variables have been organised by the researcher
• covert observation is when people dont know they are being observed
• overt observation is when participants are aware that their behaviour is being observed
• participant observation is when the observer is part of the group being observed
• non-participant observation is when the observer is separate from the people being observed
• observational studies are high in validity, capture spontaneous and unexpected behaviour and are a fundamental method of gathering data
• observational studies have observer bias and only observable behaviour is recorded
• naturalistic observation provides a realistic picture of spontaneous behaviour so is high in ecological validity but there is little control over everything else that may be happening
• controlled observation means the observer can focus on particular aspects of behaviour but the environment may feel unnatural so lower ecological validity
• overt observation may be subject to demand characteristics
• covert observation means that participants behaviour is more realistic but raises ethical issues of consent and privacy
• participant observation provides special insights into behaviour but has issues of participant awareness
• non-participant observation has higher objectivity but raises ethical issues