Abstract

As part of our on-going efforts to formulate an alternative paradigm for health promotion research, we discuss an approach that we have called a ‘critical social science perspective’ (CSSP). This perspective consists of a set of ‘reflexive’ questions concerning the implicit assumptions and ideology underlying the research process, and the role of power, contradiction and dialectical relationships in theory and research practice. The paper briefly outlines key features of a CSSP and models its application to health promotion research by examining why and how smoking among young girls has emerged as a research issue. We illustrate how the ‘problem’ of young girls smoking has been construed in terms of epidemiological evidence, scientific imperative, flawed strategy, feasibility, symbolic appeal, vested interests and resistance. A CSSP reveals the socio-political construction of research problems. The paper reflects on the implications of adopting such a stance to research.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.