Non-Participant Observation

• A non-participant observation does not involve the researcher in the activities of those being studied.
• Non Participant Observation


  • A non-participant observation does not involve the researcher in the activities of those being studied.
  • It usually involves a checklist of things to observe (the structure), which can then be turned into quantitative data.
  • Positivists are more likely to use this method.
• Advantages 


  • Not as time-consuming and cheaper than participant observations.
  • Researchers can replicate and check findings.
  • Reduced risk of the Hawthorne effect because the researcher is detached and uninvolved.
• Advantages 


  • Easy to make comparisons with similar observations, providing quantitative data so that patterns, trends, and causes can be highlighted.
  • Consent is easily obtained, so more ethically preferable than participant observations.
• Disadvantages

  • Not practical to observe all groups.
  • Very difficult to record all observed incidents.
  • The categorisation of observations is influenced by subjective interpretations, so different observers of the same group might record incidents differently.
• Disadvantages 


  • Risk of Hawthorne effect due to the presence of an observer.
  • The use of covert observation devices, such as hidden cameras, are ethically problematic due to the lack of informed consent.
  • Only a small group can be observed, so the sample may not be representative.