Researchers conducted a naturalistic observation to compare the social interaction behaviours of elderly residents (aged 75–90 years) in an assisted living facility. The study compared residents who regularly registered for a weekly communal art therapy workshop with those who did not. The sample consisted of 50 residents in total (25 in the art therapy group, 25 in the comparison group).
The observation took place in the facility’s central lounge during afternoon social hour. The residents were observed covertly by two trained researchers from a discrete seating area while they interacted freely with staff and other residents.
To ensure consistent and objective recording, the observers used a structured observation sheet with predefined behavioural categories.
Identify two behavioural categories that the observers could have used in this observation to assess the residents' social interaction behaviour. Explain why your chosen categories are appropriate.
Practise AQA A Level Psychology Scientific processes with exam-style questions for A Level Psychology. 689 questions, matched to the AQA A Level Psychology (7182) specification and written in Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3 style. Every question includes a full worked solution and mark scheme, so you can see where marks are awarded rather than just whether you got the answer right.
