Tavistock observation method

It will be argued that this research method is indicated when research interests focus on the detailed analysis of conscious as well as unconscious intrapsychic and interpersonal processes of single persons interacting with important others in groups. Dependent on the research design this qualitative method can be used in single case studies as well as in mixed- or multi-method designs. In the main part of the chapter, research steps will be described in detail that have to be worked through when using observation according to the Tavistock method in a research project. Therefore, the chapter will especially focus on the work in observation groups, which every observer has to attend during data collection and interpretation. With reference to psychoanalytic concepts like transference/counter-transference, the meaning of the subjective experience of the researcher and of the dynamic processes in an observation group for data interpretation are described. To illustrate this workflow, reference is made to project material based on observations of the three-year-old Noah and his attempts to develop relationships within his peer group during his first weeks in kindergarten.