Participant Observation

For this assignment the role of participant observation was assigned, thus trying to gain entry into a setting without disturbing the routine behavior of others (Macionis, 2011, p 26). The purpose of the observation assignment is to observe and interpret different types of interactions between, for this assignment I chose to observe couples and families present, as well as the environment in which these interactions take place. This field observation was conducted at the I-Hop restaurant in Alexandria, Louisiana. Where group structures, and dynamics, patterns of behavior, as well as overall activities, and the timing and the duration of such interactions and behaviors were observed and recorded. Sociological concepts pertaining to gender, class, ethnicity and age were also noted and applied. The theories discussed here will be gender-conflict; Watson explanation on human behaviorism. The culture being observed here is popular culture-"cultural patterns that are widespread among a society's population." (Macionis, 2012, p. 65)

I-Hop was chosen as an ideal observation place as it is accessible to local members of the community as well as tourist and visitors looking for socialization. The restaurant is moderately priced, a fairly inexpensive placed to eat making it a popular eating place, allowing people from a wide variety of socio-economic classes and different cultural backgrounds, the atmosphere is relaxed making it conducive to all ages and groups of individuals. Which I felt would be a great place to observe and record the interactions between, families, friends and intimate couples. This observation took place over a ninety minute period, allowing me the opportunity to view individuals as they entered the restaurant, placed their order, consume their meal, socialize, pay their bill and finally leave.

Families of two or more children were observed. After being seated the parents immediately began helping their children decide what they wanted to eat before deciding on their own orders. Conversation and other activities revolved around the children during the course of the meal, occasionally the parents were observed talking to each other without involving the children. With a considerate amount of time spent controlling the children's behavior emulating appropriate dining etiquette, as well as helping them eat their meal. Duly noted was as a norm the mother took the more disciplinary role, while the father engaged in playful activity with the children. Once finishing their meal the family immediately asked for check, the father paying while the mother gathered the kids to leave.

The couples being observed were from different cultural backgrounds and seemly intimate, most choosing to sit next to each other as opposed to sitting across from each other which would be considered the norm within our society. The couples that chose to sit opposite each other spent most of their time bent over or leaning across the table to talk or whisper in a more intimate and secretive manner with their partner. Other than glancing around the restaurant upon their arrival, none of them made a habit of surveying the restaurant, as was the norm for other participants of this assignment. Also noted the female goes to the bathroom almost as