In a participant observation (PO) study, the researcher joins the group or social situation that is being studied.
● The aim is to understand what is happening from the point of view of those involved, to 'get inside their heads' and to understand the meaning that they give to their situation.
● The research is 'naturalistic': it is done in the natural setting and may take many months, or even years.
● Participant observation can be carried out overtly or covertly.
Theory
Participant observation are observed by interprevists as they use methods/approaches that generate detailed in depth data which reveal the meanings individuals attach to behaviour (micro). They attempt to establish ‘social reality’
