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.