Qualitative Methods in Social Work Research

by Deborah K. Padgett

Overview

The Second Edition of Qualitative Methods in Social Work Research provides accessible how-to instruction for social work and other practice-based researchers interested in carrying out rigorous and relevant qualitative research. This comprehensive, expanded version offers a sophisticated introduction to qualitative methods based upon six major approaches: ethnography, grounded theory, case study, narrative, phenomenological, and participatory action research. Similar to the earlier edition, this Second Edition is a highly readable introduction to qualitative research that combines attention to methodological rigor with pragmatic concerns for real-world relevance.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781412951920
Publisher:	SAGE Publications
Publication date:	06/20/2008
Series:	SAGE Sourcebooks for the Human Services , #36
Edition description:	Second Edition
Pages:	304
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

Dr. Deborah K. Padgett is widely known for her expertise in qualitative and mixed methods including this third edition and a companion text Qualitative and Mixed Methods in Public Health (Sage, 2012). She is first author of Housing First: Ending Homelessness, Transforming Systems and Changing Lives (Oxford University Press, 2015) and has published extensively on mental health needs and service use of homeless adults and other underserved populations. Dr. Padgett was Principal Investigator on two NIMH-funded R01 grants, both qualitative studies of engagement and recovery among formerly homeless adults in supportive housing in New York City. She served as President of the Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR), culminating in the establishment of the SSWR "Deborah K. Padgett Early Career Award" in recognition of her contributions. She is a member of the American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare (AASWSW) and serves on its Board. In 2013, Dr. Padgett received New York University’s Distinguished Teaching Award.

Table of Contents

PREFACE
1. The Qualitative Methods Family
2. Choosing the Right Approach(es)
3. Getting Started: Study Design and Sampling
4. Ethical Issues in Qualitative Research
5. Entering the Field and Conducting Observation
6. Interviewing and Use of Documents
7. Data Analysis and Interpretation
8. Strategies for Rigor
9. Telling the Story: Writing Up the Qualitative Study
10. Mixed Methods
APPENDIX: WRITING A QUALITATIVE METHODS PROPOSAL FOR EXTERNAL FUNDING
REFERENCES
INDEX
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Editorial Reviews

This book is a must for any social worker interested in qualitative research. With a style that it is exceptionally easy to read, it provides all the basics around theory, the practical "how-to's ", cautions/pitfalls and as well as plentiful examples to illustrate the concepts presented. It also provides information about additional readings and resources for an area you want to delve further. It will answer many, if not all, the questions you have about qualitative research. The book will make you excited about qualitative methods, and is so interesting and enjoyable to read, that I read it cover to cover in less than a week. I could barely put it down! There aren't a whole lot of other research books that can make that claim!

Donna S. Wang

After explaining the origins of, reasons for using, and myths about qualitative research methods, Padgett (social work, New York U.) discusses "the researcher as instrument," practical considerations in getting started, ethical issues, methodological matters (including strategies for enhancing rigor), research combining qualitative and quantitative methods, and challenges at the individual and schools of social work levels. Appendices contain information on computer software for data analysis, and guidelines for writing a qualitative research proposal. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

Booknews

Dr. Padgett’s text Qualitative Methods in Social Work Research is informative and easy for students to read and understand. The book offers clear advice to students about how to design and execute qualitative research studies.

Bruce Winston

Padgett is the ultimate ‘pro’ researcher, methods expert, and communicator. This is the one book you need for master's study, professional practice research, doctoral study, and your continuing research agenda!

Roberta Iversen

Padgett uses her extensive experience to expertly achieve two seemingly contradictory ends: educate about the conceptual underpinnings of qualitative research methods, and provide the concrete steps needed to carry them out. As a research discipline that is often not fully understood by many, Qualitative Methods in Social Work Research will be appreciated by academics and students alike.

Jessica Toft

Padgett knows how to make students and even lecturers curious about qualitative methods and she copes in her book very well the gap between an overview and a deeper understanding of research methods.

Armin Schneider