Observational Method in
Psychology
Class 11 – Chapter: Methods of
Enquiry
Presented by: [Your Name]
Introduction to Observation
• Observation is a powerful tool of psychological
enquiry. It is effective for describing behaviour.
In daily life, we observe many things but do
not always take notice. Scientific observation
differs as it is purposeful and systematic.
Careful observation reveals interesting insights
about people or events.
Scientific vs. Day-to-Day
Observation
• Scientific observation differs from daily
observation in the following ways:
• - Selection: Only specific behaviours are
observed.
• - Recording: Behaviour is recorded using
tallies, notes, photos, or videos.
• - Analysis: Recorded data is analysed for
meaning.
Skill of a Good Observer
• A good observer possesses the following
qualities:
• - Knows what to observe
• - Determines when and where to observe
• - Selects suitable recording methods
• - Maintains objectivity
• Observation is a learned skill that improves
with practice.
Types of Observation
• Observation can be classified into:
• 1. Naturalistic vs Controlled Observation
• 2. Non-participant vs Participant Observation
Naturalistic Observation
• Conducted in real-life settings like schools,
hospitals, or homes. Observer does not
interfere.
• Example: Observing students in a school
setting.
• Advantages: High ecological validity
• Disadvantages: Less control over external
Controlled Observation
• Conducted in a laboratory with control over
variables.
• Example: Introducing smoke in a lab setting to
observe responses (Box 2.1 NCERT).
• Advantages: High precision
• Disadvantages: May lack real-world
authenticity.
Non-Participant Observation
• Observer watches from a distance and does
not engage with subjects.
• Methods: Sitting in class, video recording
• Risks: Subjects may alter behaviour due to the
observer's presence.
Participant Observation
• Observer becomes part of the group being
studied.
• Requires rapport building. Level of
involvement may vary.
• Advantage: Deeper insight into group
dynamics
• Challenge: Risk of observer bias.
Advantages of Observation
Method
• - Enables study in natural settings
• - Reveals non-verbal behaviour
• - Useful when subjects cannot verbalize their
thoughts
Limitations of Observation Method
• - Time-consuming and labour-intensive
• - Observer bias due to beliefs and values
• - Observers must record behaviour objectively,
without immediate interpretation
Avoiding Bias in Observation
• To minimize bias:
• - Record behaviour as it happens
• - Postpone interpretation
• - Use multiple observers or tools for accuracy
• Remember: 'We see things as we are, not as
things are'.
Summary
• Observation is a vital tool in psychology when
used with care and skill.
• Its success depends on the observer's
objectivity, method, and analysis.
• Different types of observation suit different
research goals.
Questions & Discussion
• 1. What are the pros and cons of participant
observation?
• 2. How can observer bias be minimized in
psychological research?
• 3. Can observation alone explain human
behaviour?
