Final answer:
Naturalistic observation is when researchers observe subjects in their natural environment without manipulating variables of interest. The researcher does not play an active role and the individuals being observed are unaware. Example: observing children's behavior on a playground.
Step-by-step explanation:
Naturalistic observation is when researchers observe subjects in their natural environment without manipulating variables of interest. The researcher does not play an active role in this type of observation, and the individuals under observation are unaware of being observed.
For example, a developmental psychologist might observe children's behavior on a playground or in their own homes to understand their natural behavior patterns.