PSY 340 Week 5 Discussion

PSY 340 Week 5 Discussion | Wilmington University

Week 5 Discussion - Observations

Our discussion for this is week is on the design features of observational research methods. While observations may seem simple to conduct, afterall, we are just observing a behavior, there are various things to consider in the development of observational studies. One of these elements is privacy of the participants. 

Consider the following scenario.

You are interested in observing people's reactions to finding money. Are they honest and return the money to its owner or do they keep the money for themselves? You and another researcher go to a busy street and record yourself dropping money in front of another person and then watch what they do. 

In your initial discussion board post, due Wednesdays by 11:59pm EST, discuss the following:

·         Are there any privacy issues or concerns present?

·         Can you anticipate any confidentiality issues?

·         Might reactivity or observer bias influence the conclusions of the study? 

In your reply post to peers, due Sunday by 11:59pm EST, respond to your peers with the following:

·         What can be done to address the privacy and/or confidentiality issues?

·         Is informed consent and/or debriefing necessary for this study?

·         Can the reactivity or observer bias issues be addressed?  If so, how?

·         How might the study design be changed to address these limitations? 

Please refer to the Discussion Board rubric for grading criteria. Note: You are required to respond to at least three (3) of your classmates for full participation points.

In completing this assignment, you will be demonstrating the following learning outcomes:

B-2 Describe ethical considerations related to different research methods.

B-3 Explain informed consent and why it is necessary.

B-6 Explain the importance of debriefing and the role it can play for reducing trauma for individuals.