Covert Observation

Covert observation is a particular type of participant observation in which the identity of the researcher, the nature of the research project, and the fact that participants are being observed are concealed from those who are being studied. Investigators using covert observation adopt the research role of complete participant.

Covert observation is conducted in three contexts: public and open settings where everyone has a right to be (e.g., grocery stores, airports), closed settings where the researcher is already a member (e.g., a nurse in a hospital), and closed settings where the researcher gains access by adopting a role appropriate for that setting (e.g., pretending to be an antiwar activist at a protest rally).

Covert observation has a number of strengths. It is particularly appropriate for the study of phenomena such as criminal and other deviant behavior of groups and individuals who would not normally allow themselves to be studied. By becoming a member of a group, the researcher directly experiences the activities of the group and so may develop a deeper understanding of the behavior. It has also been argued that this research method increases the trustworthiness of data in that participants are not controlled or manipulated and the reactivity or observer effect is less likely.

Covert observation has a variety of weaknesses. To gain access, the researcher needs to share or adopt characteristics with the group, and this may present a significant barrier. If the real identity of the researcher became known, the investigator could be confronted with a dangerous situation due to either the nature of the setting or the antagonism of unwilling participants. Covert observation restricts data collection. Overt methods, such as interviewing, and data-recording strategies, such as audiorecording and note taking, cannot be used. Fieldnotes must be prepared from memory after the researcher has left the field and, therefore, are subject to errors of omission and faulty recall.

Some researchers regard covert observation as an unethical practice because it represents an invasion of privacy and violates the norm of informed consent. The ethical guidelines for most of the major social science scholarly associations advise against the use of covert methods. However, other researchers, such as Richard Mitchell, claim that nearly all research involves some secrecy. For example, no matter what method is used, few researchers disclose full information about a study and many adjust how they represent themselves so as to facilitate access. Covert observation conducted in public places, where it may be presumed that individuals know that others will see what they are doing, is less problematic. Finally, ensuring that research protocols involving covert observation undergo rigorous ethics review helps to ensure the safety and support the rights of participants.