research methods - observations. Flashcards
What is meant by “naturalistic observations”?
When behaviour is watched and recorded in a setting in which it naturally occurs.
What is meant by “controlled observations”?
When behaviour is watched and recorded within a structured environment.
What is meant by “covert observations”?
When the participant’s behaviour is watched and recorded without their consent.
What is meant by “overt observations”?
When the participant’s behaviour is watched and recorded with their consent.
What is meant by “participant observations”?
When the researcher becomes a member of the group whose behaviour they are studying.
What is meant by “non-participant observations”?
When researchers remain outside of the group of the behaviour he/she is observing.
Why are observations used?
- allow psychologists to investigate behaviours participants without getting the participants actively involved.
- enabled psychologists to study observable behaviours.
- provides them with more flexibility to study more complex interactions in a more natural way.
What is the use of naturalistic observations?
- aspects within are free to vary.
- researcher has no influence.
What is a strength of naturalistic observations?
- high external validity
↳ findings can be generalised to everyday life.
➝ behaviour is studied in an environment in which it naturally occurs.
What is a weakness of naturalistic observations?
- lack of control
↳ cannot be replicated.
What is a strength of controlled observations?
- easier to replicate
↳ due to control over variables.
What is a weakness of controlled observations?
- may produce findings that cannot be generalised to real life situations.
What is a strength of covert observations?
- reduces demand characteristics
↳ behaviour recorded is natural.
What is a weakness of covert observations?
- ethical issues
↳ no informed consent.
What is a strength of overt observations?
- gained informed consent
↳ meeting ethical guidelines.
