Maximizing Theoretical Contributions of Participant Observation While Managing Challenges. (August 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dahlke, Sherry; Hall, Wendy; Phinney, Alison
• Is Part Of: Qualitative health research. Volume 25:Number 8(2015:Aug.)
• Page Start: 1117
• Page End: 1122
• Publication Date: 2015-08
• Subjects: grounded theory -- participant observation -- symbolic interaction -- vulnerable populations; Health -- Periodicals; Health behavior -- Periodicals; Health -- Research -- Methodology -- Periodicals; Health behavior -- Research -- Methodology -- Periodicals; 610.7205
• DOI: 10.1177/1049732315578636
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1049-7323

Abstract

Participant observation (PO) is an important method of data collection used in a variety of research methodologies. PO can inform theory development by providing understanding of participants' behaviors and the contexts that influence their behaviors. Because theory development is important in grounded theory studies, we emphasize theoretical contributions of PO while interrogating the challenges of using PO, in particular, attending to informed consent. We use the exemplar of a mid-range theory about nursing practice with hospitalized older adults to highlight contributions of PO to category development. While acknowledging theoretical contributions, we explore challenges entailed in observations where consenting participants interact with vulnerable patients and a changing cast of health care professionals in dynamic contexts. Reflexivity about interactions with vulnerable individuals, as well as other actions to avoid compromising voluntary consent, enhances contributions of PO.