Using Written Accounts in Qualitative Research

Abstract

AbstractThis article discusses the methodological implications of using written accounts as the primary source of data in qualitative research. Data from a pilot study into family relationships in two families with an anorexic child is presented to illustrate the ways in which this strategy can facilitate the interpretation of different family members' perspectives. Written accounts are shown to be a time-efficient means of gathering good-quality, descriptively rich data. Differences between oral and written modes of communication mean that participants' written accounts are more highly focused and reflective than transcripts from oral interviews, facilitating data analysis and interpretation. Relationships between researchers and researched are more circumscribed than in face-to-face interviewing, which may limit opportunities to explore emergent issues or make informal observations during the interview process. However, the more circumscribed contact between researchers and respondents may also make it easier to manage the complex social dynamics that can emerge when researching families. Whilst written accounts cannot be used as a direct substitute for oral interviews their strengths appear to be undervalued in qualitative research in psychology.