Surveys and Direct Observation in Studying Family Dynamics
Family dynamics details aspects of the family, such as members’ interactions, members’ roles, relationships, and factors within the family that influence their interactions. Surveys and direct observations provide a framework for studying family dynamics (Busetto et al., 2020). While surveys involve the collection of data or information using individual members’ responses to a set of questions, direct observation involves watching the family’s interactions and behaviors as they occur.
Surveys are easy to administer, can be generated in less time compared to direct observation, can be administered remotely using telecommunication devices, allow for extensive flexibility as many questions can be asked around a single aspect, and allow for a broad range of data to be collected. However, on the downside, respondent biases may prevail. Family members may not be inclined to provide honest or accurate answers. Additionally, family members may not be comfortable giving answers that depict them as unfavorable. Surveys may also not accurately represent the actual position of the family as aspects such as feelings, thoughts, and behaviors may not be captured in writing comprehensively.
Direct observation allows the investigator to capture activities, feelings, behavior, and other physical aspects of the family without the family members’ willingness to respond to questions. Direct observation also provides more detailed information than surveys as it allows the investigator to interrogate aspects that they feel require more responses. Direct observation also provides a higher level of flexibility, especially in its application. Also, it is simple, accurate, and can be used for all families regardless of their literacy or sociocultural backgrounds. On the downside, direct observation may not be applicable in detailing all aspects of the family dynamics. Aspects such as the sexual activity of a couple may not be easily documented in direct observation. Direct observation may also be unreliable as the accuracy of the occurrences is not guaranteed. In addition, direct observation also takes a longer time, is subject to the observer’s biases, may vary from one observer to another, is expensive, and is not adequate in drawing conclusive findings on the family.
References
Busetto, L., Wick, W., & Gumbinger, C. (2020). How to use and assess qualitative research methods. Neurological Research and Practice, 2(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s42466-020-00059-z.Free Essay Example
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Question 
What are some pros and cons of using surveys and direct observation to study family dynamics?
Surveys and Direct Observation in Studying Family Dynamics