Page 8 - Mind Map_Methods of Enquiry in Psychology

Naturalistic Controlled

Observation Observation

• When observations are done in a • When observations need controlling
natural or real-life setting, its called certain factors that affect behaviour
Naturalistic Observation which is being observed, it is known
• In this case the observer makes no as Controlled Observation.
effort to control or manipulate the • This is also known as Controlled
situation for making an observation. Laboratory Observation which is
• Example - observation conducted in obtained in laboratory experiments.
hospitals, homes and schools. • Example - Smoke can only be
introduced in a controlled laboratory
situation.

Non- Participant Participant

Observation Obsevation

• Here, the observer tries to observe • The observer here, becomes a part
the person or event from a distance. of the group or event being
• The person being observed may not observed.
be aware that s/he is being • The observer takes some time to
observed. establish a rapport with the group so
• Ex- Installing a camera to record the that they start accepting her/him as
activities or the observer sitting in a one of the group members.
corner of the class without • Example- A class monitor is asked to
interfering or participating in their observe how understanding and
everyday activities. friendly his/her classmates are.

ADVANTAGE OF OBSERVATION METHOD

It enables the researchers to study people and their behaviour in a naturalistic situation,
as it occurs.

LIMITATIONS IN OBSERVATION

1. In Non-Participant Observation is that someone (an outsider) is sitting and
observing may bring a change in the behaviour of the sample being observed.
2. In Participant Observation, the the degree of involvement of the observer with the
group being observed would vary depending on the focus of study.