Types of observation

• Describe naturalistic observation

  Recording of spontaneously occurring behaviour in natural environment

  Pros

  • high ecological validity
  • no demand characteristics

  Cons

  • less reliable
• Describe naturalistic observation

  Recording of spontaneously occurring behaviour in natural environment

  Pros

  • high ecological validity
  • no demand characteristics

  Cons

  • less reliable
• Describe controlled observation

  Manipulate variables {e.g. Watson & Rayner and Milgram}

  Pros

  • reliable
  • quantitative data
  • controls = internal validity

  Cons

  • demand characteristics
  • low ecological validity
• Describe participant observation

  The observer becomes a participant in the group being observed

  Pros

  • high validity
  • more detailed observations

  Cons

  • observers may lose objectivity by becoming friends
• Describe non-participant observation

  Researcher remains separate from the group they are studying

  Pros

  • objective
  • not intrusive, high validity

  Cons

  • low validity, ignores reasons for behaviour
  • observer may see less
• Describe covert observation

  Observing people without their knowledge

  Pros

  • high validity
  • no demand characteristics

  Cons

  • ethical issues
• Describe overt observation

  Target group are aware they are being studied

  Pros

  • ethical

  Cons

  • low validity
  • demand characteristics