Introducing Qualitative Research in Psychology

Book excerpt: "...a textbook much to be recommended...not only locates developments in how psychology has come to be seen in a clearly explained philosophical framework, but provides detailed accounts of a rich sample of current qualitative methodologies. The hard question of choice among methods is tackled 'up front', so that the strengths and weaknesses of each research practice are clearly presented...The device of establishing an epistemological standard and presenting each method in relation to it is original and helps to make clear how these seemingly disparate ways of investigation...can be brought together. The addition of substantial case studies in the use of qualitative methodologies as appendices is just what is needed...The clarity and detail of the exposition throughout is a model for books of this kind." - Rom Harre, Linacre College, Oxford and Georgetown University * Why use qualitative research in psychology? * How is qualitative research in psychology carried out? * What are the major debates and unresolved issues surrounding this form of research? Introducing Qualitative Research in Psychology introduces students to the rationale behind qualitative research methods and provides clear guidance on how to carry out basic qualitative research. It describes and illustrates six distinct approaches to qualitative research in psychology, including grounded theory, interpretative phenomenology, case studies, discursive psychology, Foucauldian discourse analysis, and memory work. Each chapter introduces a different approach and its procedures and techniques for gathering and analysing data, setting out its advantages and disadvantages and discussing ways of writing up research. Useful features in support of the learning process include further reading at the end of each chapter and boxed discussions of the controversies surrounding each method. In addition, examples of work carried out by undergraduates, provided in three appendices, illustrate how qualitative research methods can be applied in practice within the real-world constraints of an undergraduate course. Introducing Qualitative Research in Psychology is an invaluable resource for students at all levels who are new to qualitative research. It is particularly suited to the needs of research methods courses and for use in support of student research projects.