- In-depth analysis of particular individual
- Good source of inspiration, but should never be used as evidence
- In-depth, longitudinal examination of individual, more qualitative
- Focuses on in-depth description of case rather than statistical analysis
- Uses a variety of other methods: naturalistic observation, interviews, questionnaires, psychological testing, physiological measure
e.g., Book: Phantoms of the Brain - Commonly used to study rare conditions and can provide great insight
Benefits
- Allows formulation of hypothesis and theories
- Can provide detail and greater understanding
- Study of abnormality can provide insights into normal functioning
Limits
- Should not be used to provide support for theories – no control groups
- Suffers from internal validity – no causation
- Since based on individual, cannot generalise
↓ internal validity
↓ external validity - Plenty of opportunity to colour research based on personal bias
0 Responses to “Case Studies”