case studies

Question 1

define case study

Answer 1

analysis of unusual or typical individuals or events to produce qualitative data

(in depth investigation, description or analysis of a single event, institution, individual, group)

Question 2

what do case studies tend to be and involve

Answer 2

• longitudinal
• gathering of data from friends and family of individuals as well as individual themselves
• researchers may construct a case history of individual

Question 3

give 3 strengths of case studies

Answer 3

+ rich detailed insights that shed light on atypical behaviour
+ contribute to understanding of typical functioning
+ leads to future studies by producing hypothesis
+ leads to review of theories alternative evidence

Question 4

give 4 limitations of case studies

Answer 4

• issues with generalising findings due to small sample size
• information into report is based into subjective selection and interpretation by researcher
• personal accounts from participants and family are prone to inaccuracy and memory decay
• low validity