What is a characteristic of direct observation?

Direct observation is characterized by the observer interacting directly with the group being studied. This means that the observer is typically present in the same environment as the subjects, allowing them to gather information in real-time and capture behavioral responses as they occur. This method provides rich, qualitative data because the observer can gain insights into the context and nuances of the behavior being studied.

In contrast, keeping a distance from the group would compromise the ability to collect firsthand information, as would conducting the study exclusively in a laboratory setting, which limits the natural behaviors that might be exhibited in a more organic setting. Additionally, while the observer's presence can sometimes influence behavior—known as the Hawthorne effect—this does not define direct observation itself, which fundamentally refers to the method of gathering data through direct interaction.