The role of qualitative social science. Discussion of “Guiding principles for hydrologists conducting interdisciplinary research and fieldwork with participants”

Abstract

ABSTRACT To understand two-way linkages between water and society, achieve sustainable water management, and effectively communicate science and policy outcomes, Rangecroft et al. (2021) highlight the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between hydrologists and social scientists and outline considerations for conducting fieldwork with participants.1In this discussion, I expand upon Rangecroft et al. (2021) to propose two contributions of qualitative social science for research about social-hydrological systems. First, qualitative social science research can help build an understanding of the lived experiences and perspectives of individuals within hydrological systems with the aim of sustainable water management. Second, drawing from a constructivist theoretical framework, qualitative social science research can highlight nuance and complexity within social-hydrological systems. In my discussion of these contributions, I provide real-world examples of effective data integration from research on the impacts of natural hazards, groundwater governance, understanding systematic vulnerabilities and adaptation to water scarcity, and sustainability science and planning.