Qualitative Research Methods in Mental Health

Abstract

As the evidence base for the study of mental health problems develops, there is a need for increasingly rigorous and systematic research methodologies. Complex questions require complex methodological approaches. Recognising this, the MRC guidelines for developing and testing complex interventions place qualitative methods as integral to each stage of intervention development and implementation. However, mental health research has lagged behind many other healthcare specialities in using qualitative methods within its evidence base. Rigour in qualitative research raises many similar issues to quantitative research and also some additional challenges. This article examines the role of qualitative methods within mental heath research, describes key methodological and analytical approaches and offers guidance on how to differentiate between poor and good quality qualitative research.

Discourse/Conversation Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorder

“…Employing qualitative methods for the study of ASD is an important way of giving a 'voice' to participants and can be particularly useful for empowering vulnerable or disadvantaged people groups (Peters 2010). The field of mental health and disability generally is one that is mediated through language (Brown et al 1996) and qualitative methods tend to focus on language use, specifically those using discourse or conversation analysis approaches.…”

Understanding the role of sleep in suicide risk: qualitative interview study

“…These initial codes were then discussed and compared within the research team, which captured the perspectives influenced by the different backgrounds of this multidisciplinary team. This triangulation of viewpoints improved the trustworthiness of the data 27. Third, initial themes were generated by grouping the identified codes based on their similarities and differences.…”

Nursing students’ perceptions of obesity and behaviour change: Implications for undergraduate nurse education

“…That is, using a range of perspectives from the research team to discuss and interpret the data (Peters, 2010). A peerchecker, a colleague experienced in qualitative methodology, was used to confirm the themes found in the data, and to further increase trustworthiness of the emerging analysis (Strauber and Carpenter, 2003).…”