megfigyelés

Megfigyelés is Hungarian for observation or monitoring. The word derives from the verb figyelni, “to watch,” with the prefix meg- and the noun-forming suffix -és, yielding a general term for the act of watching, noting, or keeping under consideration.

In science and research, megfigyelés denotes a data collection method based on watching and recording phenomena, behaviors, or events over time. It can be structured with predefined categories and protocols (systematic observation) or informal and open-ended (unstructured observation). Observations can be conducted by the observer alone (non-participant) or with the observer actively involved in the setting (participant). Techniques include time sampling and event sampling, and researchers seek reliability and validity while mitigating observer bias and the potential Hawthorne effect.

In medicine, megfigyelés refers to an observation period during which a patient’s condition, symptoms, and vital signs are monitored to guide diagnosis or treatment. This can occur in hospitals, clinics, or during home care, and may precede interventions, procedures, or discharge decisions.

In legal and security contexts, megfigyelés can denote surveillance or monitoring by authorities. Such use raises considerations of privacy, civil liberties, and proportionality, and is typically regulated by laws and oversight mechanisms to balance safety with individual rights.

In everyday language, megfigyelés also means paying close attention to details to understand, verify, or predict phenomena, often informing learning, exploration, or problem-solving.