Question 1

Polsky suggests that it is both wise and possible to study criminals in their natural environment.

Accepted Answer

Polsky argues that studying criminals in their natural environment is both wise and possible because it provides insights into their behavior and motivations, and can inform strategies for prevention and intervention.

Question 2

Probability sampling is the most often used strategy in participant observation.

Accepted Answer

Probability sampling is not typically used in participant observation. Instead, researchers often use purposive or snowball sampling to select participants who have the characteristics or experiences relevant to the research question.

Question 3

In participant observation it is best to get on with the task at hand and directly ask the respondents the questions one wants answers to.

Accepted Answer

In participant observation, the researcher generally spends a lot of time observing the participants and their behavior, and may slowly build rapport with them before asking direct questions. This approach allows for a more natural conversation and can lead to more meaningful insights.

Question 4

Surprisingly, a disproportionate number of police studies have utilized participant observation as the major means of data gathering.

Accepted Answer

Participant observation has been widely used in police studies since it allows researchers to immerse themselves in the culture and understand the perspectives of police officers. However, other methods such as surveys and interviews are also commonly used.

Question 5

Due to the many sources of error inherent in surveys and experiments, field surveys are more preferred and superior methods.

Accepted Answer

Field surveys, while useful for gathering data in real-world settings, are not inherently superior to experiments; the preference depends on the research question, objectives, and context. Experiments often allow for better control over variables and can establish causality, which field surveys cannot always achieve.

Question 6

There is a unanimous agreement among those conducting participant observation in criminal justice research that the investigator should avoid moralistic stances.

Accepted Answer

While some researchers advocate for a neutral stance to avoid bias and ensure objectivity, others argue that taking a moralistic stance is necessary to address ethical concerns and injustices observed during research. There is no unanimous agreement on this issue.

Question 7

The "Chicago School of Sociology" in the twenties was a leading advocate of field studies.

Accepted Answer

The Chicago School of Sociology in the twenties was known for promoting the use of field studies, such as observing behavior in urban neighborhoods and communities. This approach emphasized firsthand observation and gathering data in a naturalistic setting, rather than relying on statistical or laboratory methods.

Question 8

Despite some shortcomings, experiments remain the most effective means of gathering data.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Despite some shortcomings, experiments remain the most...

Question 9

The text agrees with the notion, "it takes one to know one," or that observers must actively participate in the activities of or possess the characteristics of the subjects of study in order to understand them.

Accepted Answer

The answer of The text agrees with the notion, "it...

Question 10

A gatekeeper is an insider or person willing to vouch for the researcher's presence.

Accepted Answer

A gatekeeper is a person who can grant or deny access to a particular group or location. In research, they can be important in gaining entry to a community, organization, or individual for data collection purposes. They may provide an introduction, facilitate communication, or give the researcher credibility by vouching for their intentions or character.

Question 11

Disguised observation in which the researcher pretends to be a member of the group is the desired strategy in field studies.

Accepted Answer

Disguised observation, where the researcher pretends to be a member of the group, is one strategy used in field studies, but it is not always the desired strategy due to ethical considerations and the potential for observer bias. Other strategies, such as overt observation, where the researcher's role is known to participants, are also commonly used depending on the research goals and context.

Question 12

In participant observation of criminals one should learn the argot, but avoid overusing it.

Accepted Answer

Learning the argot, or specialized language, of the group being observed is important in order to understand their communication and culture. However, overusing it can lead to being perceived as an outsider or trying too hard to fit in.

Question 13

In his research Orne discovered that most experimental research subjects will balk when asked to perform meaning less or ridiculous tasks.

Accepted Answer

Orne discovered that most experimental research subjects are surprisingly willing to comply with seemingly meaningless or ridiculous tasks, a phenomenon that highlights the importance of the experimenter's influence and expectations in psychological experiments.

Question 14

Participant observers should usually record notes or impor tant details on the spot, while it is happening.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Participant observers should usually record notes or...

Question 15

Ethnography and ethnomethodology are examples of qualitative data gathering procedures.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Ethnography and ethnomethodology are examples of qualitative...

Question 16

The text took the point of view that the only perfect research is no research.

Accepted Answer

The text argues that all research is imperfect and that the only way to avoid making mistakes is to not do any research at all.

Question 17

Most participant observers agree that it is a good idea to study groups with which you are already familiar or of which you are a member.

Accepted Answer

Participant observers often prefer studying groups they are not familiar with to maintain objectivity and avoid bias.

Question 18

A "verstehen" approach to data gathering involves a more qualitative, sensitizing strategy.

Accepted Answer

A "verstehen" approach is often used in sociological research and involves gaining an understanding of social phenomena from the perspective of those experiencing it. This approach typically involves qualitative data gathering techniques, such as interviews and observation, which prioritize understanding over statistical analysis.

Question 19

Contrary to advice offered by other writers, Polsky feels that it is very possible to study criminals in their natural environment.

Accepted Answer

Polsky argues that studying criminals in their natural environment is possible, despite what some other writers may suggest.

Question 20

LaPiere's restaurant study found that, even though the majority of restaurant owners indicated they would serve an oriental couple, most actually refused them service.

Accepted Answer

LaPiere's study actually found the opposite: despite the majority of restaurant owners indicating they would refuse service to an oriental couple in a survey, nearly all of them provided service when the couple visited in person.

Quiz 7: Participant Observation and Case Studies