The Social Contexts of Focus Groups

Abstract

This article argues that focus group discussions are shaped by multiple social contexts, a fact that is often ignored by researchers. Using data from a focus group study of the effects of violence on everyday life, this article provides an analysis of four such contexts: the associational, status (especially gender), conversational, and relational contexts. These multiple and overlapping contexts foster both problematic silences (lack of disclosure) and problematic speech (strategic shaping of comments) in group discussions. These processes limit the usefulness of focus groups as a tool for understanding individual thoughts, feelings, or experiences. However, they make focus groups an excellent site for analyzing the processes of social interaction. The article concludes with suggestions for improving the implementation and interpretation of focus groups in light of this analysis.

A Focus Group Study of Predictors of Relapse in Electronic Gaming Machine Problem Gambling, Part 2: Factors that ‘Pull’ the Gambler Away from Relapse

“…The empirical data presented does not imply causality but provides a description of the relapse episode when it is managed successfully and is the basis for theories that need further examination. This study is based on a small number of persons not representative of the whole problem gambler population and is reported as part of a post hoc enquiry with its inherent problems of reporting bias (Hollander 2004). However, the strength of the study is that it presents a clear description of motivation for change; the 'pull' acting during the acute relapse process to maintain abstinence or urge reduction or extinction as ways of coping with the temptation to return to gambling.…”

Consumer perspectives of the Australian Home Medicines Review Program: Benefits and barriers

“…27 However, we found that such potential drawbacks were outweighed by the opportunities that the group sessions offered us. Specifically, the unfolding group dynamics helped participants to explore and clarify their own perspectives, stimulated the exchange of experience in a relaxed atmosphere fostering mutual disclosure, and highlighted the values shared by patients who are at risk of medication misadventure.…”

L’utilisation de « groupes de discussion » dans la recherche en déficience intellectuelle

“…Le contexte de la tenue du groupe de discussion L'organisation de groupes de discussion focalisée nécessite que le chercheur tienne compte du contexte social de l'activité; ce contexte peut limiter l'apport de cette méthode pour connaître le point de vue, les sentiments ou l'expérience des participants (Hollander, 2004). Cet auteur identifie quatre contextes qui doivent être pris en considération : les contextes associé, statutaire, conversationnel et relationnel.…”