A shortcoming of laboratory observation is that the presence of researchers may cause participants to behave differently than they would in their usual surroundings.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is correct. Known as the "observer effect," it is a potential confounding variable in laboratory observations. Participants may modify their behavior or responses because they know they are being observed or want to please the researchers.

A Shortcoming of Laboratory Observation Is That the Presence of Researchers