This comprehensive textbook introduces the key research methods employed in psychology and across the social sciences. Written in a lively, non-technical style, it covers both quantitative and qualitative methods.
The volume is organized into four sections: the first considers the relationship between psychological theory and research methodology from both practical and ethical viewpoints; Part Two explains how to collect data using the major types of research design and introduces their underlying philosophical principles; Part Three offers a guide to traditional techniques of data gathering in psychology and also features less common techniques such as diary methods, focus groups, ethnographic approaches and action research; the final part covers data analysis, explaining the logic of statistical testing and the relationships between methodology and statistics. It avoids over-complicated formulae and focuses upon what can legitimately be inferred from commonly used psychological statistics.
The book is illustrated with examples from current research and combines step-by-step advice, exercises, projects and lists of further reading.
Dame Glynis M. Breakwell is Professor Emeritus at the University of Bath in the Department of Psychology and has Visiting Professorships at Imperial College, London and the University of Surrey. Her research focuses upon identity process theory, social influence and social representation processes, leadership in complex organisations, and the psychology of risk management, perception, and communication. She has published more than 20 books, several of which are on research methods. She has been an adviser to both public and private sector organisations on the use of psychological methods and theories, especially concerning responses to public crises and major emergencies.