Case Studies Flashcards
What are case studies?
In-depth, detailed investigations of one individual or a small group.
They usually include biographical details, behavioural information and experiences of interest.
Explanations of behaviour are outlined in subjective ways, describing what an individual feels or believes about particular issues.
What psychological techniques can be used in a case study?
Questionnaires, interviews, personality tests, experiments.
What are two advantages of case studies?
Rich detail:
Case studies provide great depth and understanding about individuals and acknowledge human diversity.
Because case studies are about ‘real people’, they have a feeling of truth about them.
Information relates to a real person, not an average gathered from many.
The only possible method to use:
Case studies allow psychologists to study unique behaviours or experiences that could not have been studied any other way.
The method also allows ‘sensitive’ areas to be explored, where other methods would be unethical, like the effects of sexual abuse.
Useful for theory contradiction:
Just one case study can contradict a theory.
Curtis (1977) reported on the case study of Genie, which helped to question evidence regarding critical stages of language development.
What are two disadvantages of case studies?
Not representative:
As no two case studies are alike, results cannot be generalised to others.
Researcher bias:
Researchers conducting case studies may be biased in their interpretations or method of reporting, making findings suspect.
Reliance on memory-case studies often depend upon participants having full and accurate memories.
