On the Use of the Interpretive Approach in Qualitative Research: An Empirical Example

Abstract

This paper presents a method of analysis and interpretation of the narrative data, based upon a study on experiencing warmth in the relationship between sisters, one of whom is a person with Down syndrome. The aim of the study was to describe and understand the meaning of the experiences in a sisterly relationship. Females aged 12–30 years, in four sibling groups, took part in the research. Two narrative interviews were conducted with each participant. The Family Relations Test (FRT), observational data, and a questionnaire for the parents on the sibling relationship were also used. The article describes in detail the data from one dyad. The results indicate that warmth is most often manifested through tenderness and closeness, and experiencing warmth is fostered by spending quality time together and enjoying it. The presence of the subject dimension—experiencing oneself as a person who is valued and close to the sister and the ability to decide—is also important. The high quality of the relationship is related to perceiving the sister with intellectual disabilities as an entity pursuing her aspirations rather than a person in need of protection and care. Simplicity of experiences, sincerity in communication, and simple language indicate attunement between the sisters. The results of this study supplement the outlook with the perspective of a person with a disability and the positive aspects of the relationship. This could have been difficult to obtain using quantitative methods.