Descriptive research methods Flashcards
naturalistic observation is…
observing in a naturally occurring setting with no influence from the researcher
advantages of naturalistic observation
natural setting=uninfluenced and ethical compared to what a traditional experiment would be
disadvantages of naturalistic observation
waiting and CANNOT CONCLUDE CAUSE-EFFECT and observer bias which is when expectations cause them to see what they want to see
laboratory observation is…
in a lab with control due to the use of equipment
advantages of laboratory observation
looking at exact behavior, proper equipment, no waiting, strict environment=no outside factors
disadvantages of laboratory observation
no spontaneity (unnatural)
case study is…
focused on one individual or very small group involving observation, interviews and testing
advantages of case study
in depth info and access to uncomon psychological/physiological disorders
disadvantages of case study
cannot establish cause of a behavior and not generalizable
surveys are…
info on attitudes, experiences and beliefs. used on a REPRESENTATIVE(reflects diversity) sample of the population
survey tool: questionnaire
is quick, comprehensive, inexpensive
disadvantage: wording can sway answers
survey tool: interview
requires a researcher and trust relationship
disadvantage: may be lies since not anonymous
survey tool: internet surveys
it generates many responses
disadvantage: not random
advantages of surveys
accurate info acquired quickly
disadvantages of surveys
costly and possibly untruthful
