Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521574277 ISBN 13: 9780521574273

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1997

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.

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.

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