Observations

• Observations

  Research methods where a researcher observes the behaviour of a group/individuals to witness their first-hand social behaviours
• Types of observations

  • Participant - researcher takes part in actions of group
  • Non-participant - observer is detached from actions from group
  • Overt - those being observed are aware
  • Covert - unaware of being observed
• Going native

  Researcher becomes so involved with group they're observing they come too subjective/unable to obtain objectivity
• Participant observation

  • Overt = researcher can ask questions and check what they're observing
  • Covert = people can't mislead researcher
  • Gets researcher to action, checking dynamics of a group close up
  • Allows to research the workings of deviant groups
  • Researcher gets first hand insight of people in natural settings
• Laud Humphreys - Tea Room Trade

  • Researched gay subcultures, exploring how gay men would have sex in public toilets in 1960's
  • Initially took covert role as layout voyeur
  • Noted men's car number plates, found out where they live, a year later he interviewed them in disguise in their homes asking about their health
• James Patrick - Glasgow gang

  • Was a teacher that befriended a 16 y/o boy and observed a gang
  • Had to focus on this physical appearance and ensure its acceptable to gain access
  • Faced rivalry between gangs and had to be on guard with weapons
  • Couldn't record info when with gang
• Strengths of covert observation

  • High in validity, people more likely to behave naturally and gain insight into meanings behind people's behaviours
  • Possible to observe body language as well as interactions
  • Verstehen possible
• Strengths of overt observation

  • P.O observer can ask questions and uncover more knowledge
  • Less change of interviewer bias, researcher isn't imposing ideas
  • Covert - reduces Hawthorne effect
  • Allows researchers to uncover findings that they haven't expected to find
• Weaknesses of covert

  • Time consuming
  • In overt, observer needs to gain access to group and build a strong rapport
• Weaknesses of overt

  • Researcher needs training to be skillful in observing and recording
  • Awareness of social characteristics affecting the group, less willing to act naturally in front of someone
  • Researcher = ethical problems, potential of harm
  • Findings can be hard to write up without exposing identity