The Least-Adult Role in Studying Children

Three membership roles adopted by researchers in studying young children are considered: a detached observer, a semiparticipatory and a complete involvement role. The complete involvement role, that of least adult, is discussed as a research role emerging from Mead's philosophy of action. Dilemmas of being “least adult,” including role identification, following the children, understanding children's language, screening out noise, role testing, rapport, and acquiring access rituals are explored.