Question

What is a key disadvantage of using the covert role in ethnography?

a) It is usually too time consuming and expensive to be a realistic option.
b) It is difficult to take notes without arousing suspicion.
c) The problem of reactivity: people may change their behaviour if they know they are being observed.
d) It can be hard to gain access to the social group.

Answer 1

A key disadvantage of covert ethnography is the difficulty in gaining access to the social group and the potential change in behavior due to reactivity.

Step-by-step explanation:

A key disadvantage of using the covert role in ethnography is difficulty in gaining access to the social group. Researchers must pretend to be something they are not and go through a process of role-playing, making contacts, networking, or applying for a job to become an inside member of the group. This can be challenging and time-consuming.

Additionally, the problem of reactivity is a concern in covert ethnography. People may change their behavior if they know they are being observed, which can affect the authenticity of the data collected.