Qualitative Psychology
A Practical Guide to Research Methods
- Jonathan A. Smith - Birkbeck College, UK
Research Methods in Psychology
Undertaking qualitative research in psychology can seem like a daunting and complex process, especially when it comes to selecting the most appropriate approach for your project or assignment. This book, written and edited by a world-leading group of academics and researchers, offers an accessible, critical and practical way into qualitative research in psychology. Each chapter provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to using a qualitative research method – from Conversation Analysis or Focus Groups to Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis or Narrative Psychology. Whatever approach you choose to take, this book will ensure you get it right from the start.
New to this Third Edition:
- A chapter on Thematic Analysis
- A section on how to choose and select the most appropriate method for your project
Broad coverage of methods, written in an accessible way.
This is a core text for graduate students wishing to use qualitative methodology for their research studies on the programme.
A really helpful text for students undertaking qualitative research.
excellent and useful book
We need a range of books which cover qualitative methodologies and can cross the psychology and counselling borders as we are a combined department with students in psychology and counselling carrying out qualitative dissertations.
Good for students who do not have a strong statistical or social science background.
Written in an accessible style which appeals to the students.
Good for background reading when designing a small scale project.
One of my favourite readings: crystal clear language and simple structure. I appreciate that there is a chapter dedicated to Thematic Analysis, which is not common. This was a good support for undergraduates, as well as postgraduates. A good and easy insight into qualitative research for quantitative-trained colleagues.
Comprehensive and useful for both MSc and Doctoral students
We did not adopt the book this year as it was impossible to implement it in the time that was left (books have to be indicated almost a year in advance). I am strongly considering adopting the book next year however. It provides a very clear and accessible outline for students and is pleasant to read. It covers most (although not all) of the topics in the course and therefore we consider using it as essential course material
Very good overview of main methodologies and a useful inclusion regarding thematic analysis
- A new chapter on thematic analysis by two leaders in the field, Victoria Clark and Virginia Braun, and their colleague Nikki Hayfield.
- An additional chapter towards the end of the book ‘Choosing your approach’ by Michael Larkin, which helps the reader (after learning about the different approaches) decide how to choose the right one for a research project they are about to embark on.
- The book now has a consistent set of subheadings in each chapter.
