Doing Qualitative Research Differently
A Psychosocial Approach
- Wendy Hollway - Open University, UK
- Tony Jefferson - University of Keele, UK, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, Sheffield University, UK
In the new edition, the authors situate their arguments firmly within a tradition of psychosocial research and show how their method has developed over the last decade. The book follows this approach through the phases of empirical research practice. At each stage they use examples from their own research and end with an extended case study which demonstrates the value of their method in producing a psychosocial research subject; that is, one with socially-imbued depth, complexity and biographical uniqueness.
This is a good start when thinking about using this creative research methodology. I particularly like the clear structure of the book that guides you through the decision making that you need to follow to decide if this is the most appropriate method of data collection for your research project. I found the chapter on working with defended subjects as this was helpful to think about the unconscious process in interviews.
The first edition of 'Doing Qualitative Research Differently' was recommended to students on the social psychology module, particularly in relation to lectures focusing on psychosocial approaches. Having read this new edition, I will be asking the library to order copies for the next academic year as there are useful reflections on the earlier edition and direct responses to critiques levied against the FANI method; which I drew from extensively in the end of semester lectures. This is a fantastic resource for lecturers and students and I would highly recommend this second edition.
Provides another way of looking at research for those for whom more traditional ways of viewing social science, and in particular issues in education, just doesn't provide the full answer.
Essential for those undertaking a major independent study or dissertation
This book seems really what I have ben looking for for this part of the UG curriculum.
Thank you for sending it to me
This book additionally addresses the narrative research and explores feminist approaches in relation to interviews. The rationale provided for avoidance of a ‘why’ question in qualitative research is clearly presented. The book covers the research arguments within the context of psychosocial research and gives examples of debates from research in the area, thus situating the book within a holistic framework approach.
