Non-direct observation allows researchers to maintain which of the following?

Non-direct observation is a research method where the observer does not actively engage with the participants, thereby maintaining physical or emotional distance. This approach is valuable in psychological research because it allows researchers to minimize their influence on the behavior of those being observed, leading to more objective data collection. Objectivity is crucial in research as it helps to ensure that the findings are not biased or influenced by personal feelings, beliefs, or interactions between the researcher and the participants.

By avoiding direct interaction, researchers can capture participants' authentic behaviors and reactions, which can lead to more reliable and valid results. This method contrasts with direct observation, where the presence and interaction of the observer can potentially alter participants' behaviors, resulting in data that may not accurately reflect the true dynamics at play. Thus, maintaining a level of objectivity is essential for the integrity of the research outcomes, making this answer appropriate.