case studies Flashcards
What is a case study in psychological research?
A case study is an in-depth investigation of a single individual, group, or event. It often involves collecting qualitative data through methods such as interviews, observations, and documents.
What are the main features of a case study?
A case study focuses on a specific case, gathers detailed information over a long period, and often uses multiple data sources. It is usually descriptive and allows for deep exploration of complex issues.
What are the strengths of case studies?
The strengths of case studies include providing rich, detailed data, offering insights into rare or unusual phenomena, and contributing to the development of theories or understanding of psychological processes.
What are the limitations of case studies?
Case studies are often criticized for lacking generalizability, being subject to researcher bias, and for focusing on unique cases that may not reflect broader patterns. They may also lack control over extraneous variables.
How does a case study contribute to theory development?
Case studies contribute to theory development by providing deep, qualitative insights that may challenge existing theories or suggest new perspectives. They help generate hypotheses for further research.
Can case studies provide insights into rare psychological conditions?
Yes, case studies are particularly useful for exploring rare psychological conditions or unique cases that would be difficult to study in larger groups or through controlled experiments.
What is the role of multiple data sources in case studies?
Using multiple data sources, such as interviews, questionnaires, and archival records, enhances the validity and richness of the case study by providing a more comprehensive understanding of the case.
How do case studies differ from experiments?
Case studies focus on detailed, qualitative data from one or a few individuals, often in natural settings, while experiments focus on controlled settings and manipulate variables to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
Why are case studies often used in clinical psychology?
Case studies are often used in clinical psychology because they allow for a thorough exploration of a patient’s symptoms, history, and treatment, providing valuable insights for diagnosis and therapy.
When would you use a case study instead of another research method?
A case study is used when studying a unique, rare, or complex phenomenon that requires detailed, contextual understanding, especially when other research methods (such as experiments) are not feasible.
What ethical considerations are important when conducting a case study?
Ethical considerations include ensuring informed consent, maintaining confidentiality, and minimizing any harm to the participants. Researchers must also consider the impact of their findings on the individual or group being studied.
