Disadvantages of Observation Methods:

According to bailey the disadvantages in observation technique are:

1. Lack of Control: In artificial setting control over variable sis possible but in natural environment the researcher has little control over variables that affect the data.

2. Difficulties of Quantification: The data collected through observation cannot be quantified. The recorded data will show how persons interacted with one another but it cannot be completed the number of times they interacted. In communal roosts looting arson killing may be observed but it cannot be quantified what type of people indulged in what it is difficult to categories in depth emotional and humanistic data.

3. Small sample size: Observational studies use a smaller sample than survey studies. Two more observers can study a bigger sample but then their observation cannot be compared. Since observations are made for a longer period employing many observers can become a costly affair.

4. Gaining Entry: Many time the observer has difficulty in receiving approval for the study. it is not always easy to observe the functioning of an organization or institution without obtaining permission from the administrator. In such case he may not record observation then and there but may write notes at night.

5. Lack of Anonymity / Studying Sensitive Issues: difficult to maintain the respondent anonymity. In survey it is easy for the husband to say that he has no quarrels and conflicts with his wife but in observation over a longer period of time he cannot conceal them.

6. Limited Study: All aspects of the problem cannot be observed simultaneously. The observation techniques studies only limited issues. Similarly internal attitudes and opinions cannot be studied.