importance of qualitative research in psychology

APA Handbook of Research Methods in Psychology: Research Designs: Quantitative, Qualitative, Neuropsychological, and Biological, edited by H. Cooper, M. N. Coutanche, L. M. McMullen, A. T. Panter, D. Rindskopf, and K. J. Sher

Unlike quantitative research, which focuses on gathering and analyzing numerical data for statistical analysis, qualitative research involves researchers interpreting data to identify themes, patterns, and meanings.

Qualitative research has a rich tradition in the study of human social behaviour and cultures. Its general aim is to develop concepts which help us to understand social phenomena in, wherever possible, natural rather than experimental settings, to gain an understanding of the experiences, perceptions and/or behaviours of individuals, and the ...

Qualitative research is an important alternative to quantitative research in psychology. It generally involves asking broader research questions, collecting more detailed data (e.g., interviews), and using nonstatistical analyses.

May 2024. This four-and-a-half-hour course delves into the intricacies of qualitative research in psychology, emphasizing the exploration of individuals’ lived experiences through methods like interviews and observations. Rooted in historical and cross-disciplinary foundations, the course offers a rich understanding of qualitative inquiry ...

This guide explains the focus, rigor, and relevance of qualitative research, highlighting its role in dissecting complex social phenomena and providing in-depth, human-centered insights. The guide also examines the rationale for employing qualitative methods, underscoring their critical importance.

qualitative methodology within the context of existing and emerging social sciences research. The second part goes on to introduce 10 different methods used in qualitative research. Each chapter reveals and develops its stance with regard to the connection between theory and (moral and political) practice

Publishes research on approaches and analytic techniques to qualitative research in psychology, including their role, educational methods and training programs.

New authors and chapters describe emerging methodologies, qualitative meta-analysis, and how qualitative methods can contribute to a wider psychological approach to research.

Given the nuance and complexity of qualitative research, this paper provides an accessible starting point from which novice researchers can begin their journey of learning about, designing, and conducting qualitative research.