Observational techniques

• Naturalistic observation: Watching and recording behaviour in the setting within which it would normally occur.
• Controlled observation: Watching and recording behaviour within a structured environment, variables are managed.
• Covert Observation: Participants behaviour is watched and recorded without their knowledge or consent.
• Overt Observation: Participants behaviour is watched and recorded with their knowledge and consent.
• Participant observation: The researcher becomes a member of the group whose behaviour they are studying.
• Non-participant observation: The researcher remains outside of the group whose behaviour they are studying.
• Example of a controlled experiment:

  Ainsworth's strange situation
• Observations Evaluation:

  • Strengths- captures what people actually do, natural.
  • Limitations- observer bias.
• Naturalistic Observations Evaluation:

  • Strengths- externally valid, can be generalised.
  • Limitations- Replication is hard
• Covert/overt observations Evaluation:

  • Strengths- no demand characteristic, increases validity.
  • Limitations- Not ethical
• Participant/non-participant evaluation:

  • Strengths- gives insight.
  • Limitations- loose objectivity