In a non-participant observation, how does the observer interact with the child?

In a non-participant observation, the observer's role is to watch and record the behavior of the child without becoming involved in the child's activities or interactions. This approach allows the observer to capture authentic behaviors and interactions as they naturally occur, without the influence or alteration that might result from direct engagement.

This method is particularly useful in behavioral studies, where the aim is to gather unbiased data on how children act in various situations. By refraining from direct interaction, the observer minimizes their presence in the environment, ensuring that the child's behavior remains unprompted and spontaneous. The focus remains solely on observation, allowing for a clearer understanding of a child's typical behaviors and interactions.