title: The learning curve: the advantages and disadvantages in the use of focus groups as a method of data collection.
abstract: Focus groups are not simply a discussion between people, but are focused interviews exploring interactions between participants. In this paper, Ian Mansell, Glynis Bennett, Ruth Northway, Donna Mead and Laurie Moseley explore the complexities and practicalities of using focus groups in research, with reference to a study of palliative care services.
authors.affiliation: School of Care Sciences, University of Glamorgan, Pontypridd, Wales, UK.
authors.forename: Ian
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Mansell
authors.forename: Glynis
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Bennett
authors.forename: Ruth
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Northway
authors.forename: Donna
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Mead
authors.forename: Laurie
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Moseley
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods*; D005181:Faculty, Nursing; D017144:Focus Groups / Q000379:methods*; D006126:Group Processes; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D007407:Interviews as Topic / Q000379:methods; D020380:Needs Assessment; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods*; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000458:organization & administration; D010821:Physicians, Family / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012107:Research Design; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires