research methods

covert- researchers observe the group in secret and pretend to be ordinary members.

overt- the researcher will tell the group they are being researched and observed.

particpant- the researcher has direct contact with the group being observed (opposite=non-participant)

natural- behaviour is observed in its natural setting without manipulation of the IV. behaviour is then more likely to be most accurate.

field- research is conducted in everyday natural settings yet it is still somewhat artifically staged and the IV is manipulated.

lab- this is a controlled environment where variables are more easily controlled and manipulated.

• This is the correct rules that must be followed when conducting research.
• the key ethical guidlines consist of:
• informed consent
• deception
• protection from harm
• privacy
• confidentiality
• right to withdraw
• the purpose of these guidlines is to protect participants and to make sure the reputation of the research carried out and psychology itself is not tarnished.
• before any research is published, it must meet these guidlines set by the British Psychological Society and the American Psychological Society.

However, sometimes not meeting these guidlines is cruical for valid research, as often if a participant is totally informed on the study, then the issue of demand characteristics comes into play. this can be resolved through debreifing.