Observational Research Types

Cons of Observational Research

Pros of Observational Research

Observer Bias

Strength of Observational Research: Rich Data

Weakness of Observational Research: Limited Generalizability

A researcher spends a month in a single preschool classroom, carefully documenting the social interactions of a small group of children without interfering with their activities. What is the most significant limitation of drawing broad conclusions about all preschoolers' social behavior from this type of study?

Loftus and Pickrell False Memory Study

Example of Observational Research: Milgram's Original Obedience Study

Example of Observational Research: False Memories Study

Goal of Observational Research

Data in Observational Research

Lack of Causal Inference in Observational Research

Participant Observation

Case Study

Archival Research

Participant Reactivity

External Validity

Example of Qualitative Observational Research: Psychiatric Ward Study

Naturalistic Observation

Structured Observation

Case Study

Which of the following best describes observational research?

In observational research, a scientist may intervene in the environment to prompt a specific behavior as long as they record the results in a systematic way.

A team of psychologists is designing a study to observe social distancing behaviors in a local mall. Match each of their planned research actions with the specific methodological goal it aims to achieve within systematic observational research.