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Naturalistic observation — OCR GCSE Psychology Definition

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Psychology
Key terms
Naturalistic observation

GCSE Psychology · key term

Naturalistic observation

Definition

An observation in which participants’ behaviour is studied in their natural environment.

Used by OCR

How each exam board covers it

OCR GCSE Psychology · J203

Paper 1, Paper 2

A naturalistic observation studies participants in their natural environment, without the researcher manipulating the situation. Watching children during their ordinary playground activities is an example.
Revise: Observations

OCR Psychology past papers

Related key terms

Controlled observation
Covert observation
Ecological validity
Inter-rater reliability
Non-participant observation

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Observer effect

Overt observation

Participant observation