Answer to Question 1
Observation methods introduce a number of ethical issues. Hidden observation raises the issue of the respondent's right to privacy. If the researcher obtains permission to observe someone, the subject may not act naturally. So, at times there is a strong temptation to observe without obtaining consent or gaining input from an IRB (Institutional Review Board). A researcher can ask him- or herself these questions when considering using observation:
(1) Is the behavior being observed commonly performed in public where it is expected that others can observe the behavior?
(2) Is the behavior performed in a setting in which the anonymity of the person being observed is assured (meaning there is no way to identify individuals)?
(3) Has the person agreed to be observed?
Also, some might see contrived observation as unethical based on the notion of entrapment, which means to deceive or trick into difficulty. That is clearly abusive. However, if no possibility of harm exists, then the researcher can likely proceed, although this particular instance should be done under the auspices of an IRB.
Answer to Question 2
Direct observation is a straightforward attempt to observe and record what naturally occurs. Every effort is made for the interviewer not to interject him- or herself into the situation. The investigator does not create an artificial situation. Contrived observation occurs when the investigator intervenes to create an artificial environment to test a hypothesis. If situations were not contrived, the research time spent waiting and observing would expand considerably.
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