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Understanding Observation Methods in Psychology

May 1, 2025

Research Methods in Psychology: Observations

Introduction to Observations

  • Definition: Observations involve researchers watching and recording behavior as it happens.
  • Purpose: The choice of observation type is dependent on the research question.

Types of Observations

  1. Controlled Observation

    • Conducted in a lab setting.
    • Advantages:
      • Control over variables.
      • High internal validity and reliability.
    • Disadvantages:
      • Artificial environment.
      • Low external validity.
  2. Naturalistic Observation

    • Conducted in the participant’s natural environment.
    • Advantages:
      • High realism and external validity (ecological validity).
    • Disadvantages:
      • Lack of control over extraneous variables.
  3. Overt vs. Covert Observation

    • Overt Observation:
      • Participants are aware and give informed consent.
      • Risk of demand characteristics (altered behavior).
    • Covert Observation:
      • Participants are unaware of being observed.
      • More natural behavior but raises ethical concerns.
  4. Participant vs. Non-Participant Observation

    • Participant Observation:
      • Researcher becomes involved in the group.
      • Advantages: First-hand knowledge and rapport with participants.
      • Disadvantages: Risk of bias and loss of objectivity.
    • Non-Participant Observation:
      • Researcher observes without joining in.
      • Advantages: Increased objectivity.
      • Disadvantages: Possible loss of important insights.

Observational Techniques

  • Operationalised Behavioural Categories:

    • Clear definitions of variables for objective measurement.
    • Example: Defining "aggression" with specific actions (e.g., punch, push).
  • Recording Behaviors:

    • Time Sampling:
      • Recording behaviors at set intervals (e.g., 15 seconds every 10 minutes).
      • Disadvantage: May miss behaviors outside set times.
    • Event Sampling:
      • Recording all behavior from a set list of categories.
      • Disadvantage: Requires multiple observers and may miss behaviors not on the list.

Checking Reliability

  • Inter-Rater Reliability:
    • Involves multiple researchers conducting the same observation.
    • Use of correlation tests (e.g., Spearman’s rho) to compare data sets.
    • A correlation of 0.8 indicates reliable results.

Conclusion

  • Observations are a crucial part of research methods in psychology.
  • The choice of observation type and technique affects the validity and reliability of the findings.

Additional Resources and Acknowledgments

  • Tutorial videos and resources available on psychboost.com.
  • Support from students and teachers on Patreon is crucial for content development.