Unstructured Interviews

Question 1

What are Practical Advantages?

Answer 1

Flexibility- uses open questions therefore you will get deeper more honest answers.
Exploration- helps when the researcher is unsure of the topic.

Question 2

What are Ethical Advantages?

Answer 2

Building a Rapport- helps put the respondents at ease which helps them open up.
Sensitivity- Having a rapport enables you to discuss sensitive subjects.

Question 3

What are Theoretical Advantages?

Answer 3

Understanding- Able to check if they respondents understand questions due to open question style.
Validity- If the participants are able to open up the data will be more valid.

Question 4

What are Practical Disadvantages?

Answer 4

Time Consuming- Can take a long time to get all the required data.
Training; Need more training as they need interpersonal skills.

Question 5

Ethical Disadvantages?

Answer 5

Harm- Asking distressing questions may cause mental harm to participant.
Interpersonal Relationships- Crossing a professional boundary.

Question 6

Theoretical Disadvantages?

Answer 6

Representativeness; small number of people used, cannot be applied to general public.
Reliable- UI are not standardised, difficult to repeat due to the use of open questions.

Question 7

Ethical Case for Unstructured Interviews;

Answer 7

Dobash & Dobash- research domestic violence, built a rapport and felt comfortable discussing personal issues.