Observing Interaction: An Introduction to Sequential Analysis [Paperback]

Roger Bakeman (Author), John M. Gottman PhD (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0521574277 | ISBN-13: 978-0521574273 | Publication Date: March 13, 1997 | Edition: 2

Mothers and infants exchanging gleeful vocalizations, married couples discussing their problems, children playing, birds courting, and monkeys fighting all have this in common: their interactions unfold over time. Almost anyone who is interested can observe and describe such phenomena. However, scientists usually demand more than a desription--they want observations that are replicable and amenable to scientific analysis, while still faithful to the dynamics of the phenomena studied. This book provides a straightforward introduction to scientific methods for observing social behavior. The second edition clarifies and extends material from the first edition, especially with respect to data analysis. A common standard for sequential data is introduced and sequential analysis is placed on firmer, log-linear statistical footing. The second edition is designed to work as a companion volume to Analyzing Interaction (1995). Because of the importance of time in the dynamics of social interaction, sequential approaches to analyzing and understanding social behavior are emphasized. An advanced knowledge of statistical analysis is not required. Instead, the authors present fundamental concepts and offer practical advice.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'The book is an excellent primer for the novice and a good methods reminder for the experienced. Its major point, that sequential observation has been ignored, is a good one. It is written in a clear, readable, self-contained style with the exception of the last two chapters which require the use of additional resources listed in the bibliography. It contains very useful tables and figures, examples, and repeated summaries of major points made in each chapter and chapter section.' American Journal of Primatology

Book Description

The second edition of Observing Interaction clarifies and extends material from the first edition, especially with respect to data analysis. A command standard for sequential data is introduced and sequential analysis is placed on a firmer, log-linear statistical footing. The second edition is designed to work as a companion volume to Analyzing Interaction (1995), which provides practical tools and computer programs for analyzing sequential observational data.

Product Details

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press; 2 edition (March 13, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521574277
• ISBN-13: 978-0521574273
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #495,581 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Observer's Bible!, May 21, 2000

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This review is from: Observing Interaction: An Introduction to Sequential Analysis (Hardcover)

This book is the best for those who are beginning to learn about observational methods. It's also a handy book for those who are observational "experts" as a quick reference.

Using examples from thier own research studies, the authors guide the readers through the development of a coding scheme, data collection techniques, and (initial) data analyses. Most importantly, the authors focus on observing behavioral interactions between people and not just behaviors from single individuals.

The text is written in clear and simple terms that even those with little background in research methods can understand.