PSYD18H3 Lecture Notes - Social Constructionism, Focus Group
Document Summary
Focus groups: there have been complaints regarding other methods(lab based) as being too artifical. Focus groups also provide a context to the content, Some psychologists have critized the individualization of psychology, thus proposing the individual self may be characterized as in connection or relationional. Some reachers have critized the extent to which interets and concerns of research participants are subordinated to the researcher, in focus group the participants are more free to express their opinion. In the focus method, there is a more egalitarian relationship between researcher and participant. Avoiding artifically: focus groups are a relatively naturalistic method . In one study, girls were allowed to bring their best friend, and they were able to be critical( able to challenge each other on contradictions between what they are professing) Avoiding decontextualizations: focus groups are social concerns for meaning making. Focus groups are need to generate meaning how opinions are formed, expressed and sometimes modified within the context of discussion.
