Unveiling Perspectives: The Utility and Limitations of Qualitative Research Methods in Understanding Human Experiences and Behaviors
Keywords:
Qualitative research methods, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, observationsAbstract
This paper examines the advantages and drawbacks of qualitative research techniques, specifically interviews and focus group discussions, in obtaining detailed insights and comprehending participants' external behaviors. This analysis utilizes two case studies—Simpson’s (2007) examination of emotional labor and gender identity in male caregivers and Akpabio et al.'s (2007) investigation of Nigerian students' perspectives on HIV/AIDS—to underscore how these methods provide valuable insights into participants’ beliefs and experiences. Nonetheless, the results indicate that qualitative interviews and focus group discussions by themselves may not completely encompass behavioral patterns, highlighting the necessity for observational methods to enhance them
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