Being observed in infant observations

Abstract Following a piece of qualitative research into the effects of being observed in infant observation, some conclusions are drawn about why it might be a valuable experience and what psychoanalytic theories could be relevant. A condensed narrative of the research chronology and methodology, which involved the use and integration of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), with some aspects of Conversation Analysis (CA), is presented. The two main themes which were extrapolated — being judged and put at ease, and lovely and calm space — are examined. There follows a discussion of why it might be expected there would be effects of being observed in this way. Some relevant psychoanalytic theories — holding and containment, projective identification and narcissism — are explored, and how they might underpin the themes and conclusions discussed. There are conclusions and three recommendations about ways of setting up and conducting such observations.