What is often a key characteristic of non-participant observation in ethnographic research?

In ethnographic research, non-participant observation is defined primarily by the researcher's role as an observer rather than an active participant in the environment being studied. This approach allows the researcher to document behaviors, events, and interactions without influencing them through personal involvement. By not engaging or interacting with participants, the researcher can capture more authentic and unbiased data about the social dynamics and cultural practices of the group being studied. This method is valuable because it helps maintain the integrity of the observed behaviors, providing insights into the social world without the researcher’s presence potentially altering the participants’ actions or responses.

The emphasis is on observing and recording rather than becoming a part of the group’s activities, allowing for a more objective analysis of the setting and its participants. This distinction is central to non-participant observation, highlighting the importance of detachment in producing credible and reliable ethnographic research findings.