Towards depth and width in Qualitative Social Work: Aligning interpretative phenomenological analysis with the theory of social domains

Abstract

Queen's University Belfast, UK In this article the authors argue that qualitative inquiry in social work can gain a clear-sighted awareness of the social world by aligning a methodological approach, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, with a sociological theory of agency and structure, the Theory of Social Domains. The authors contend that this alignment equips the researcher with an understanding of both the psychological and sociological dimensions of existence – its ontological depth and width. A case for this alignment is made, first, by setting out the theoretical and methodological foundations of both approaches and then, second, proffering a conceptual bridge between them through their shared interest in social phenomenology. The remaining part of the article goes on to consider how this alignment provides a theoretical and methodological substratum for qualitative investigations into social work where anti-oppressive research practice is to the fore.