Case Studies

What is a longitudinal study?

Case studies often take place over a long period of time - they are longitudinal, and may involve gathering data from family and friends. This method is preferred by psychologists who adopt an idiographic approach to human behaviour

What are strengths of case studies?

• rich in detail - in depth understanding about individuals • often the only possible method really to use - studying unique behaviour or experience • it is also for the study of sensitive areas to be explained whilst other methods would be unethical • useful theory for contradiction - one study can contradict the whole case/study

What is a case study?

A case study is an in-depth study, using a range of methods on one person, a small group, an institution or an event. They often involve unusual individuals or events; however, they can also concentrate on more typical cases such as elderly persons recollection of their childhood

What do case studies allow?

This method of investigation allows a detailed insight into the 'case' under study and usually involved the production of qualitative data. Researchers construct a case history using a variety of different methods such as interviews and observations. It is sometimes possible that the person be subject to experimental testing to see wha they are capable of, and this may produce quantitative data.