Psychological Research Methods

1. Case Study Methods
   1. Definition and Characteristics
      1. In-depth investigation of a single case or a small number of cases
      2. Emphasis on contextual analysis and real-life application
      3. Focus on detailed and holistic understanding rather than generalization
   2. When to Use Case Studies
      1. Exploring complex phenomena not suited for experimental investigation
      2. Generating hypotheses for further research
      3. Providing detailed descriptions and insights into rare or unique cases
   3. Types of Case Studies
      1. Intrinsic Case Studies
         1. Focus on understanding a specific case for its own sake
         2. Typically used when the case itself is of unique interest or relevance
      2. Instrumental Case Studies
         1. Provides insights into a particular issue or helps refine a theory
         2. The case itself is secondary, used to illustrate or explore an aspect of interest
      3. Collective Case Studies
         1. Involves studying multiple cases simultaneously or sequentially
         2. Enables comparison and is used to investigate phenomena in diverse settings
   4. Data Collection Techniques
      1. Interviews
         1. Structured, semi-structured, or unstructured approaches
         2. Gathering first-hand accounts, perspectives, and narratives
      2. Document Analysis
         1. Review and interpretation of existing documents, records, or material
         2. Contextualizing findings with historical, official, or personal documents
      3. Observation
         1. Direct observation of events, processes, or behavior in context
         2. Can be overt or covert, participatory or non-participatory
      4. Archival Records
         1. Use of existing statistical data, reports, and records to supplement data
         2. Effective in historical case studies or when longitudinal data is needed
      5. Artifacts and Physical Evidence
         1. Examination of tangible artifacts relevant to the case
         2. Includes tools, technology, spaces, and other physical items
   5. Advantages
      1. Provides a comprehensive and multifaceted understanding of complex issues
      2. Allows exploration of variables and interactions in real-life context
      3. Facilitates theory development through rich, detailed data
      4. Useful in evaluating programs, practices, and interventions
   6. Limitations
      1. Challenges in generalizing from single cases to broader populations
      2. Potential for researcher bias due to close interaction with the study subject
      3. Time-consuming and resource-intensive data collection and analysis
      4. Ethical and practical challenges in gaining access to or preserving case privacy
   7. Ethical Considerations
      1. Ensuring informed consent and confidentiality of participants
      2. Balancing the researcher's role with maintaining objectivity and respect
      3. Managing potential impacts on individuals, organizations, and communities
      4. Vigilance in reporting to avoid misrepresentation or harm