To what extent may the presence of the researcher affect the people being studied?

1. Questionnaires may lack reliability as participants may alter their answers to be more socially desirable.

2. However, the presence of the researcher may not affect the people being studied, instead they would appreciate it incase they are not able to understand a question. This proves that the data obtained is valid.

3. when sampling is done for eg criminal sample When sampling for crime, researchers gain access to respondents that have mutual trust, allowing them to get answers based on actual facts. Although the researchers presence is likely to have an effect on such answers, some respondents may willingly give the right answers, making the research free of Hawthorne effect.

4. Non-verbal cues may affect the way the participants answer questions, however, the researchers would usually be trained to control their non-verbal cues and prevent the participants from giving socially desireable answers.

5. Against • Scientific methods appropriate for reducing bias and subjectivity • Covert research/use of CCTV/cameras • Using online surveys/postal questionnaires/secondary data • Objectivity • Structured interviews • Closed questions • Individuals behave naturally once trust is established

5.1. For • Problems of achieving objectivity • Value freedom • Leading respondent • Style of dress/behavior of researcher • Status /class of researcher • Age/gender of researcher • Manipulation of respondent • Choice of research aim

6. yes it affects the research as people show social desirability. during interviews

7. During overt observation participants of subcultures being studied may alter their behaviour to conform to the majority culture.