naturalistic observation definition psychology

#Naturalistic observation definition psychology series#

All of the methods described thus far are correlational in nature. While this can be a fairly inexpensive way to collect data that can provide insight into a number of research questions, researchers using this approach have no control on how or what kind of data was collected. Some researchers conduct archival research by using existing records. While this allows for results to be generalized to the larger population more easily, the information that can be collected on any given survey is somewhat limited and subject to problems associated with any type of self-reported data. Survey research, on the other hand, allows researchers to easily collect data from relatively large samples. For example, studies that rely primarily on observation produce incredible amounts of information, but the ability to apply this information to the larger population is somewhat limited because of small sample sizes.

#Naturalistic observation definition psychology series#

Other approaches involve interactions between the researcher and the individuals who are being studied-ranging from a series of simple questions to extensive, in-depth interviews-to well-controlled experiments.Įach of these research methods has unique strengths and weaknesses, and each method may only be appropriate for certain types of research questions.

Some methods rely on observational techniques. There are many research methods available to psychologists in their efforts to understand, describe, and explain behavior and the cognitive and biological processes that underlie it. Compare longitudinal and cross-sectional approaches to research.Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of case studies, naturalistic observation, surveys, and archival research.Describe the different research methods used by psychologists.By the end of this section, you will be able to: