Microsoft Word Chapter 1 done doc

10
2.2
UNDERSTANDING RESEARCH METHODS : 
 
In social psychology we study human behaviour in social 
context. Information based on the research covers major part of 
any text on social psychology. To be scientific in understanding, it is 
essential to know how the information is gathered. This picture 
becomes clear when we have some basic understanding of 
research. It is important to know what was the method used in any 
research. We often come across research regarding attitude of 
people towards certain product, what is the opinion of people 
regarding a political party, political leaders, etc. To rely on this 
information the way research was conducted needs to be explored. 
This helps us to develop insight in to the issue. Following are some 
basic methods employed in social psychological research:
2.2.1 Systematic observation : 
 
This is a widely used and appreciated research method. In 
this method there is a systematic observation and recording of 
behaviour. It is a careful observation of behaviour as compared to 
our routine observation. It is also called as naturalistic observation- 
observation of behaviour as it occurs. Here a great effort is laid on 
the observer to avoid any interference or influence on the person 
who is being observed. 
Another method is survey method. In this method a large 
number of people are asked about their responses regarding their 
attitudes or opinions on different issues. There can be a verbal 
inquiry or written questions in the form of semi-structured interview 
schedules, scales, questionnaires and inventories can be used. 
However, certain aspects needs to be taken care. One is the 
sampling and another is the wording of the questions. In sampling it 
is important to see that the sample is representative of the entire 
population in question. For example, if you are investigating the 
attitude of the people towards compulsory (mandatory) voting in the 
country, than it is not sufficient to take sample only from one state 
of the country. It will not represent the opinion or attitude of the 
entire country. Similarly, wording is also as important as sampling. 
For example, if you worded your question as person who murdered 
someone should be hanged, possibly you will get an answer as 
‘yes’, but if you frame your question as “is death penalty necessary” 
or “are you in favour of death penalty”, you may get both type of 
answers. Wording is important because it can have different impact 
on different people.