case studies (meaning and evaluation)

Question 1

define it

Answer 1

An in-depth investigation, description and analysis of a single individual, group, institution or event

Question 2

What do they usually involve analysis of

Answer 2

Unusual individuals or events such as a person with a rare disorder

Question 3

How are they usually conducted

Answer 3

Usually involves the production of qualitative data

Question 4

when do case studies tend to take place

Answer 4

Over a long period of time so longitudinal

Question 5

strength of case study

Answer 5

• offers detailed insights into unusual topics

- can contribute to our understanding of ‘normal’ functioning eg case of HM

Question 6

weaknesses of case studies

Answer 6

• generalising is difficult as they have small sample sizes
• info is all subjective to researcher
• evidence into case studies (so if we are listening to childhood stories told from the participants) have low validity