FMIP2-Nature-Overview-of-Field-Methods-in-Psychology
FMIP2-Nature-Overview-of-Field-Methods-in-Psychology
FIELD METHODS IN
PSYCHOLOGY*
Prepared by:
Mr. JOEY C. LANDICHO, MSP
Course Instructor
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Learning Objectives:
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Introduction
• Field methods in psychology refer to the
systematic approaches employed by
researchers to collect data in real-world
settings rather than controlled laboratory
environments.
• These methods allow psychologists to observe
and study behavior, cognition, and emotional
responses in natural contexts, providing a more
ecologically valid understanding of human
behavior.**
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Types of Field Methods
1. Observational Research
• This method involves systematically watching and recording behavior in its natural
setting without intervention.
• Process: Researchers carefully observe and document behaviors, interactions, and
environmental factors.
• Example: Studying children's play behavior on a playground to understand social
development.
2. Surveys and Questionnaires
• Researchers collect data through self-report measures, often distributed to a sample
population.
• Process: Designing and administering structured or semi-structured surveys to
gather information on attitudes, opinions, and behaviors.**
• Example: Conducting a survey to explore public perceptions of mental health.
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3. Field Experiments
• Applying experimental methods in real-world settings, manipulating
independent variables to observe natural responses.**
• Process: Researchers maintain experimental control while allowing for the
unpredictability of the field.
• Example: Investigating the impact of workplace interventions on
employee productivity.**
4. Case Studies:
• In-depth examination of a particular individual, group, or phenomenon in its
natural context.
• Process: Gathering detailed information through interviews, observations,
and archival data.**
• Example: Studying the long-term effects of a traumatic event on an
individual's mental health.
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Advantages of Field Methods
1. Ecological Validity
• Field methods provide a realistic understanding of behavior in natural
contexts, enhancing the external validity of research findings.**
2. Naturalistic Observation
• Observing behavior in its natural setting allows researchers to capture
spontaneous and authentic responses.**
3. Rich Data
• Field methods often yield rich and nuanced data, contributing to a
more comprehensive understanding of psychological phenomena.**
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Challenges and Ethical
Considerations
Emerging Trends and Future
Directions
Addressing Ethical Challenges
• Researchers conducting field studies must remain vigilant in addressing ethical
considerations to ensure the well-being of participants and the integrity of the
research. Key strategies include:
✓Informed Consent: Clearly communicating the purpose, procedures, and
potential risks of the study to participants, ensuring voluntary
participation.
✓Confidentiality and Anonymity: Safeguarding participant information to
protect their privacy and anonymity, especially in sensitive research
topics.**
✓Cultural Sensitivity: Acknowledging and respecting cultural differences to
avoid imposing ethnocentric perspectives on diverse populations.**
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Conclusion
• Field methods in psychology play a crucial role in
advancing our understanding of human behavior by
capturing it in its natural context. Researchers employ
a variety of approaches, each with its strengths and
limitations.
• Field methods in psychology continue to evolve,
driven by advancements in technology, a growing
appreciation for cultural diversity, and an ongoing
commitment to ethical research practices.
Researchers utilizing these methods contribute
valuable insights into the complexity of human
behavior, broadening the scope of psychological
knowledge.
• As the field progresses, it is essential for psychologists
to remain attuned to emerging trends, ethical
considerations, and innovative methodologies that
enhance the rigor and relevance of field research in
psychology.**
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Reference(s):
• McLeod, S. A. (2008). Observational methods in
psychology.
• Fink, A. (2013). How to conduct surveys: A step-by-step
guide.
• Hesse-Biber, S. N. (2010). Mixed methods research:
Merging theory with practice.
• Yin, R. K. (2014). Case study research: Design and methods.
• Smith, J. A. (2015). Qualitative psychology: A practical
guide to research methods.
• Angrosino, M. V. (2007). Doing ethnographic and
observational research.
• Miles, M. B., Huberman, A. M., & Saldaña, J. (2013).
Qualitative data analysis.
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