Participant Observation Summary

Statement of thesis
Throughout “Participant Observation” the author explains the importance of participant observation and the trials faced by many ethnographers. Dewalt & Dewalt expound upon this by stating what basic elements and attitudes are needed to do participant research effectively. This reading shows how observers face ethical dilemmas, gender disadvantages, family and safety issues, and, most importantly, limits to participation. How far are they willing to go to gather information? Overall, the main point that Dewalt & Dewalt present is that despite it’s obstacles, participant observation is effective in providing the opportunity for new researchers to begin to anticipate problems, identify alternative strategies and learn