Observation

• • Covert observation: Participants are unaware they are being observed until after the study; raises ethical concerns. 

   
• • Overt observation: Participants are informed about being observed and the purpose. 

   
• • Controlled observation: Behavior is observed in a controlled environment, like a lab (e.g., Bandura’s Bobo doll study). 

   
• • Natural observation: Spontaneous behavior is recorded in a natural setting. 

   
• • Participant observation: Researcher becomes part of the group being studied. 

   
• • Non-participant observation: Researcher observes from a distance without direct contact ("fly on the wall").