Case studies

Question 1

What is a case study?

Answer 1

An in-depth investigation of an individual, group, or event, often using multiple data sources such as interviews, observations, and documents.

Question 2

What type of data is typically collected in case studies?

Answer 2

Case studies collect qualitative data (e.g., interviews, observations) and sometimes quantitative data (e.g., test scores, physiological measures).

Question 3

What are the strengths of case studies?

Answer 3

1. Provides rich, detailed data.
2. Useful for studying rare or unique cases.
3. Allows the study of behavior in real-life settings.
4. Can generate new theories.

Question 4

What are the weaknesses of case studies?

Answer 4

1. Difficult to generalize findings to the wider population.
2. Can be time-consuming and expensive.
3. Potential for researcher bias.
4. Often relies on retrospective data, which may be unreliable.

Question 5

How do case studies use triangulation?

Answer 5

Triangulation involves using multiple methods (e.g., interviews, observations, and experiments) to increase the reliability and validity of the findings.

Question 6

What ethical issues can arise in case study research?

Answer 6

1. Informed consent – ensuring participants understand the study.
2. Confidentiality – keeping sensitive data private.
3. Psychological harm – ensuring participants are not distressed.
4. Right to withdraw – allowing participants to leave at any time.

Question 7

How do case studies contribute to psychology?

Answer 7

Case studies help develop theories, provide insight into rare conditions, and contribute to clinical practice and treatment strategies.