Rethinking the survey

Allan Kellehear

pp. 126-137

in: Derek Colquhoun, Allan Kellehear (eds), Health research in practice, Berlin, Springer, 1993

Abstract

Is there a correct methodological approach to health research? Are there methods which are consistently superior for yielding valuable insights in comparison with other methods? I doubt it. In this chapter, I argue that methodological approaches have, or should have, little to do with brand loyalties or the convenience of one's usual skills in this area. Methodological choices should complement the research questions asked, as many a textbook will argue, but furthermore, the methods should also be sensitive to the needs and features of the respondents or social processes being studied.