LGBTmultiple sclerosis 

What is qualitative research

 

Qualitative research in social sciences (psychology, social work, sociology, anthropology etc.) refers to the way researchers are conducting their research and collecting data. In contrast to quantitative research, which mostly uses questionnaires, surveys and experiments and statistically analyses the results, qualitative researchers are more interested in the depth of data. Therefore, they are using  in-depth interviews, personal testimonies (e.g. diaries), focus groups and visual data either independently from each other or in a combination.

 

For this specific research I am aspiring to use visual data complementing verbal data. But what does that mean? Verbal data are usually the oral testimonies of people (in-depth interviews, focus groups, testimonials etc.) whilst visual data are images, photos or videos etc. I am interested in a fairly new technique in social sciences research called photovoice. Photovoice is a visual technique with which people are explaining their world using photos which have taken themselves. They explain what the images in the photos symbolise for them and their lives. In a research context they are mostly used for the participants to talk about  the topic investigated. In psychology research usually it is asked from the participant to take snapshots of their lifes related to the specific topic investigated; objects, living environment, nature etc.

 

It has been mostly used in Participatory Action Research (PAR), and with excluded individuals and communities. These excluded or seldomly heard individuals are offered an empowering way to explain their lifeworld and create the foundations for change. They are allowed to 'voice' their experience through 'photos'.

 

The reason I am using a qualitative approach with interviews and visual data through photovoice is because I'm arguing human and social reality is extremely complicated. So, the best way to understand a health related topic is through thorough investigation and deep understanding having the individuals-participants at the focal point. Additionally, qualitative approaches allow the researcher to give the participants some kind of control on how they share their experience with the researcher and the world. They also help the researcher to create knowledge which will advance their professional field but also assist towards change. Change which will also facilitate the needs of the individuals taking part.