Applying observational methods to antiracist research with White families

In an effort to disrupt ongoing racial injustice, many areas of psychology are increasingly interrogating Whiteness-defined as a system of cultural practices, laws, and institutions that confer privilege and resources to White individuals. Features of Whiteness, including avoidance, defensiveness, and self-presentation bias, present unique methodological challenges that render observational methods indispensable for antiracist research with White participants and families. This article outlines innovative approaches to manage the influence of Whiteness and racism on research teams and observational methodologies, tailor methods to both parents' and children's developmental levels, and incorporate technology to expand observations beyond the lab. In particular, we focus on the use of observational methods to study White racial socialization, a key mechanism through which racism or antiracism is conveyed across generations. Our recommendations are illustrated through practical and empirical lessons from a case study of The CARPE DIEM Study, which evaluates a novel antiracist parenting intervention for White mothers of White children. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).