Observational Research

Brian J. Piper, Ph.D.

Types

• Naturalistic Observation: observe the behavior as an outsider

• Participant Observation: observe the behavior as in insider

Naturalistic Example 1: Jane Goodall

• Dominant Views– tool use is defining feature of humans– Chimpanzees are docile vegetarians

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKyrLFyOi04

2 min:

1934-

Ethogram

Naturalistic Example #2: Robert Sapolsky

• Baboons and culture

2 min:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_HVhlJ4AmQ

1957-

Participant: Accuracy of Diagnosis

SCZ- SCZ+

SCZ- Correct Diagnosis

Type Ierror

SCZ+ Type IIerror

CorrectDiagnosis

• 8 healthy pseduo-patients presented to 12 psychiatric hospitals with complaint of hearing voices

• Acted normal but 11 diagnosed as schizophrenic

• Fellow patients, but not staff, were suspicious

• Released after 7-52 days (mean = 19)

Decision

Rea

lity

Rosenhan (1973). Science, 179, 250-258.

0:37-3:30: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kq-7uvVOoyk

1929-2012

Challenges

• Control: variable• Observer bias: data fits with hypothesis

– Inter-observer reliability • Correlation

• Participant reactivity: participants may react to observer(s)– Unobtrusive Measures: cameras

http://www.myspace.com/video/tippytoes/polar-bear-moon-walk/59921647