Observational studies in police custody areas: some methodological and ethical issues considered

Since the 1960s, social researchers have conducted a number of studies of police behavior and operational practice, and some of these have included an observational component. This paper reviews some of the methodological and ethical difficulties involved in conducting observational research in police stations. It then considers the advantages of using this type of research technique, and ends with suggestions for conducting this type of research which take account of these methodological and ethical issues.