Case studies

• Case studies

  To study a case in psychology is to provide a detailed and in depth analysis of an individual group, institution or event. Case studies tend to take place over a long period of time and may involve gathering data from family and friends of the individual as well as the person themselves.

  Case studies often involve analysis of unusual individuals and events. Case studies may also concentrate on more typical cases.
• involve qualitative data


  Researchers will construct a case history of the individual or event concerned, perhaps using interviews, observations, questionnaires or a combination. The data collected is usually qualitative. Psychological tests may also be used to assess for example intelligence or personality. These are likely to produce qualitative data
• Evaluation : strengths of case studies

  1. Richness in detail. Preferred to the more superficial forms of data that may be collected. Such detail is likely to increase the validity of the data collected.
  2. Enables study of unusual behaviour. Some behaviours/conditions are very rare and cannot be studied using other methods. In addition, some cases can help understanding of typical functioning
• Evaluation : Limitations of case studies

  1. Prone to researcher bias. Conclusions are based on the subjective interpretation of the researcher and personal accounts. This may reduce the validity of the study.
  2. Small samples. Sample may be one individual/event with unique characteristics. This makes it difficult to make generalisations meaning it has low external validity.