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Experience sampling method

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This research method, developed by Larson & Csikszentmihalyi (1983)[1] asks subjects to stop at certain times and make notes of their experience in real time. The point is them to record temporal things like feelings while in the moment (right then, not later; right there, not elsewhere).

There are different ways to signal subjects when to take notes in their journal, like using preprogrammed stopwatches. An observer can have an identically programmed stopwatch (the Timex Data Link USB is easy to program for this with a PC), so the observer can record specific events as the subjects are recording their feelings or other behaviors.

Validity in these studies comes from repetition, so you can look for patterns like subjects reporting greater happiness right after meals. These correlations can them be tested by other means for cause and effect, since ESM just shows correlation.


Larson, R., & Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1983). The experience sampling method. New Directions for Methodology of Social and Behavioral Science, 15, 41-56.

  1. ^ Larson, R., & Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1983). The experience sampling method. New Directions for Methodology of Social and Behavioral Science, 15, 41-56.