METHODS OF OBSERVATION
TESTING METHOD Measures various elements of human behavior (intelligence, personality) Advantage: Convenient methods for researchers to gain insight Disadvantage: may not provide a complete picture of one’s true abilities
CASE-STUDY METHOD In-depth investigation of individuals or small groups Advantage: provides insight into specific cases Disadvantage: study cannot be replicated; interviews may be distorted
NATURALISTIC OBSERVATION Observe behavior in natural environment Advantage: Settings are not artificial; how people behave can be assumed normal behavior Disadvantage: No control over the setting or events
LABORATORY OBSERVATION METHOD Observe behavior in laboratory setting Advantage: control certain aspects of the study Disadvantage: cannot duplicate real-life environments; people know they are being watched
LONGITUDINAL METHOD People are observed at intervals over a long period of time Advantage: see how individuals change over time Disadvantage: time-consuming; expensive; people may not be available
CROSS-SECTIONAL METHOD Study people in different age groups at a given time Advantage: Less time-consuming Disadvantage: Differences between members may not be because of age/development