The Delphi method: methodological issues arising from a study examining factors influencing the publication or non-publication of mental health nursing research

Abstract

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to describe how the classic Delphi method can be adapted and structured to ensure that specific research questions are clearly addressed.Design/methodology/approach– As part of a larger mixed method project, a modified Delphi study was undertaken to explore factors influencing publication and non-publication of mental health nursing research.Findings– This paper reports brief findings from the Delphi study. However, its main focus is the methodological issues arising from the Delphi method.Research limitations/implications– The paper argues that the classic Delphi method can be adapted and structured to ensure that specific research questions are able to be clearly answered. The adaptations are pragmatic in approach and in keeping with the general principles underpinning the Delphi method, while successfully addressing the problems of attrition and previous criticism of homogenous panels.Originality/value– This paper offers some practical solutions to issue arising from undertaking research using the Delphi method.