Case studies

• Case studies:

  • detailed, in-depth and longitudinal analysis of an individual, group, institution or event
  • may involve gathering data from family and friends of the individual as well as the person themselves
  • typically unusual individuals or events (e.g. someone with a rare disorder)
  • usually involve qualitative data e.g. due to questionnaires, interviews or psychological tests
• Case studies: strengths

  + rich and detailed insight compared to the more 'superficial' forms of data that might be collected. Detail is likely to increase the validity of the data collected

  + enables study of unusual behaviour. for example, some behaviours/conditions are very rare and cannot be studied using other methods. additionally, some cases can help understanding of 'typical functioning
• Case studies: limitations

  • prone to researcher bias as conclusions are based on the subjective interpretation of the researcher and personal accounts. this may reduce the validity of the study
  • small samples as the sample may be one individual/event with unique characteristics. this makes it difficult to make generalisations (low external validity)