Using children's diaries as a research instrument.

Abstract

A MAJOR OBSTACLE in research with children is finding an effective, valid instrument that is neither intrusive nor artificial. This is particularly true in qualitative, exploratory research because of the subjective nature of the data sought. In our study of daily stressors and coping responses of children, a semistructured daily journal, directed at particular research questions, has proved to be an effective research tool (Sorensen, 1988). Many objective measures used in studies with children are simply developmentally scaleddown versions of instruments used in research with adults (Ryan, 1988). Common descriptive methods used to collect data from children have included adult-oriented observations or interviews. Although these instruments are seen as objective, they often offer an incomplete behavioral assessment of children, providing little insight into their thinking. Folkman and Lazarus (1984) affirmed that subjective reporting of informants, from their own perspective of daily life, should be the primary source of data in exploratory research. Subjective data collection tools are appropriate for use with children since there is a particular need to get inside the unique “culture of childhood” to ascertain how the world actually appears to children (Yamamoto, Soliman, Parsons, & Davies, 1987, p 855). A daily, purposive journal, directed specifically toward pertinent variables while remaining open-ended, is one data collection method that can offer valuable insights into the unique world view of children. This article illustrates the value of such a journal as a research instrument when working with children.