Research Methods: Covert Participant Observation

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What is the primary concern when it comes to the generalizability of insights gained from a particular group being studied?

External validity

What is the term for the ability of a research method to produce the same results when repeated by another researcher?

Reliability

Why do positivists reject participant observation as a research method?

Because it is considered an unsystematic method that cannot be replicated by other researchers.

What makes it difficult to compare participant observation studies with other research?

The production of qualitative data Signup and view all the answers

What is a major criticism of participant observation studies?

Lack of objectivity Signup and view all the answers

Why may a sociologist conceal sensitive information in their research?

Loyalty to the group or fear of reprisals Signup and view all the answers

How do structured interviews increase reliability in research?

By asking the same standard questions in the same way Signup and view all the answers

What makes William Whyte's participant observation method unique?

It was dependent on his personal skills and characteristics Signup and view all the answers

What is a limitation of covert participant observation in terms of validity?

The addition of a new member (the researcher) can still change the group's behaviour, thus reducing validity. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it difficult for researchers to obtain informed consent in covert participant observation?

Because the researcher's true identity and purpose cannot be revealed until after the study is completed. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential moral dilemma for covert observers?

Participating in immoral or illegal activities as part of their 'cover' role. Signup and view all the answers

What is a criticism of covert participant observation raised by critics like Patrick?

Abandoning the group without explanation after the study is completed. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential legal issue for covert observers?

Witnessing illegal activities and having a duty to intervene or report them to the police. Signup and view all the answers

Why do covert observers have to lie about their reasons for leaving the group?

To maintain their cover and avoid revealing their true identity as researchers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main ethical issue in covert participant observation?

The deception of participants and the potential harm caused to them. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of covert participant observation?

Observing natural behaviour without the Hawthorne Effect. Signup and view all the answers

What did Whyte learn from observing, rather than conducting interviews?

Answers to questions that he would not have had the sense to ask if he had been using interviews. Signup and view all the answers

What advice does Polsky offer to researchers conducting participant observation?

Initially, keep your eyes and ears open but keep your mouth shut. Signup and view all the answers

What groups may be particularly suited to study through participant observation?

Groups that are seen as deviant or disreputable by wider society, such as delinquent gangs, football hooligans, and drug users. Signup and view all the answers

Why may questionnaires be ineffective in studying certain groups?

Because these groups may see researchers as unwelcome representatives of authority. Signup and view all the answers

What was the focus of Aaron Cicourel's study?

How police and probation officers categorise juveniles by making unconscious assumptions about whether they are criminal 'types'. Signup and view all the answers

Why would it be pointless to ask police and probation officers questions about their assumptions?

Because they are unaware of their assumptions and may not be able to articulate them. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key advantage of participant observation in studying certain groups?

It allows researchers to build a rapport with the group and gain its trust. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main benefit of using participant observation to study certain groups?

It can provide a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the group's behavior and attitudes. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of participant observation, according to Cicourel?

To observe the police directly in their work and get at their assumptions. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major practical disadvantage of participant observation?

It is very time-consuming. Signup and view all the answers

What skills are required for a researcher to conduct participant observation effectively?

Observational and interpersonal skills. Signup and view all the answers

How can a researcher's personal characteristics affect their ability to conduct participant observation?

Personal characteristics such as age, gender, or ethnicity may restrict what kinds of groups can be studied. Signup and view all the answers

Why do some groups resist being studied through participant observation?

They may have the power to make access difficult. Signup and view all the answers

What type of groups are often focused on in participant observation studies?

Relatively powerless groups. Signup and view all the answers

What is a challenge that researchers may face when trying to access certain groups for participant observation?

The group may not wish to be studied. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of covert participant observation?

It can be personally stressful and demanding. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main problem with covert observation in research?

It is unethical, immoral, or illegal because it involves obtaining information without the informed consent of the subjects. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'life-world' refer to in the context of research?

It refers to the way people live their daily lives and their values. Signup and view all the answers

What is the limitation of starting research with a specific hypothesis and pre-set questions?

The researcher may miss important questions that are relevant to the subjects, but not considered important by the researcher. Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of participant observation in research?

It allows the researcher to enter the situation with a relatively open mind and to discover new things as they arise. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean for a theory to be 'grounded' in real life?

It means that the theory is based on actual observations and experiences rather than preconceived notions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between participant observation and other research methods?

Participant observation is a more flexible method that allows for changes in direction as new situations arise. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to consider the subjects' perspectives in research?

Because the subjects may have different opinions about what is important, which may not be considered by the researcher. Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of using participant observation to study a topic with little or no previous knowledge?

It allows the researcher to explore the topic without preconceived notions and to discover new insights. Signup and view all the answers