Why are objectivity and generalizability to important to case studies?

What will be an ideal response?


The goal of the researcher is to create data that can be repeated by another researcher with similar results to demonstrate the theory or principle found. In qualitative research, objectivity is very important because the researcher makes many subjective decisions when interpreting data, and must consider when there is too much subjectivity. Researchers often present the findings with the intention that a future researcher should repeat the study to corroborate results. The second concern with case study research is if it is applicable to any other population besides the individual case studied. There is a scientific value to the research even if it is only for understanding of that one case or event. However, when case studies are executed properly, they should provide insight into similar types of individuals, groups, and events. This is not to create stereotypes, but to suggest explanations for a particular group's behaviors. The principle of generalizability is built on the fact that few human behaviors are entirely unique. There are limits to how far case study data can be generalized.

Social Work & Human Services

You might also like to view...

Intersectionality includes

a) Race b) Gender c) Socio-economic background d) All of the above

Social Work & Human Services

The recovery model uses a social model of disability rather than a medical model; thus, it deemphasizes diagnostic labeling and emphasizes __________, the hallmark of family therapy approaches

A) psychotic functioning B) psychosocial functioning C) family functioning D) physical functioning

Social Work & Human Services

In the case example in this chapter, Spiro chooses a strategy involving a personnel change

A) ?True B) ?False

Social Work & Human Services

Race is a biological category based on genetic traits such as skin color

a. true b. false

Social Work & Human Services