Which of the following statements about problems in naturalistic observation studies is TRUE?
A) Proper training of observers will eliminate any chance that cognitive bias will affect the results.
B) Observers may interpret events in ways that confirm what they already believe about the situation being observed.
C) Deception is generally not used in naturalistic observation because reactivity is rarely an issue.
D) Although participant observers must be careful about influencing the research setting, they do not need to be concerned about the setting's effect on themselves.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Observers in naturalistic observation studies may interpret events in ways that confirm what they already believe about the situation being observed, leading to cognitive bias. While proper training may reduce the impact of cognitive bias, it is unlikely to eliminate it entirely. Deception may be used in naturalistic observation studies to reduce reactivity, but it must be used ethically and with informed consent. Participant observers must be careful about both influencing the research setting and being influenced by it.

Which of the Following Statements About Problems in Naturalistic Observation