Integrating qualitative and quantitative research methods: a research model.
A historical antagonism between proponents of qualitative methods and quantitative methods has prevented recognition of the benefits to be gained by employing both methods (that is, a multi-method approach) during the same study or program of studies. Increasingly, family therapy researchers have begun to recognize the value of a multi-method approach in bridging the current gaps among theory, research, and practice. However, current writings have yet to move beyond the discussion stage. This article proposes a bidirectional continuum that includes both qualitative and quantitative methods. An ethnographic content analysis approach is presented to illustrate the procedural stages of this continuum. The article ends with a discussion of the challenges in carrying out a bidirectional, multi-method approach and the potential contributions that an integrative research methodology will give both researchers and clinicians.
Sells
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SP
School of Social Work, University of Nevada-Las Vegas 89154-5032, USA.
Smith
T E
TE
Sprenkle
D H
DH
D005196:Family Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008388:Marital Therapy / Q000379:methods; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D012107:Research Design