Qualitative research in the area of health: the whys and wherefores

By Jaime Ribeiro, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria – Portugal

When the subject is qualitative research, it is often said “One cannot generalize,” “It lacks substance,” “Few individuals are studied” and, even disparagingly, “This is very subjective.” These criticisms have contributed to the evolution of qualitative research and highlight the rigor behind well-conducted studies. Although statistical generalization has not been established, there has been a marked focus on internal validity that measures the specificities of the group/phenomenon/case studied. The contributions to the construction of knowledge are undeniable, since what is eventually lost in scope is gained in depth and understanding. The detailed description of phenomena and their subsequent deconstruction and reconstruction, enhance the mobilization and critical transferability of knowledge, thereby enabling analytical generalization.

After this “eye-opener” on qualitative research, the question arises: Why conduct qualitative research in the area of health? The answer is that qualitative methods have much to offer to those who study the health services. Firstly, the growing credibility of mixed studies today will gradually break down the quantitative-qualitative dichotomy, either by using qualitative investigation as exploratory for the quantitative research or, conversely, by clarifying, based on questionnaires, opinions and behavior in the natural environment in which the phenomenon studied occurred.

Knowing the significance of the health-illness phenomena can contribute greatly to enhance the quality of the relationship between consumers and healthcare providers; foster greater adherence to health measures individually and collectively; and acquire a more profound understanding of the emotions and behavior of patients, families and health professionals. Undoubtedly, health is of the people, for the people and by the people, therefore, in-depth scrutiny of “subjectivity” enables greater knowledge and consequently provides answers tailored for the people, users and health professionals.

Ribeiro, Jaime, Souza, Dayse Neri de, & Costa, António Pedro. (2016). Qualitative research in the area of health: the whys and wherefores. Ciência & Saúde Coletiva, 21(8), 2324. https://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1413-81232015218.15612016