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Related Experiment Video

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Enactive Phenomenological Approach to the Trier Social Stress Test: A Mixed Methods Point of View

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[The relationship between qualitative research and positivism].

Cheng-I Yang¹, Li-Hung Lee, Wen-Chii Tzeng

¹School of Nursing, University of Nottingham, UK.

Hu Li Za Zhi the Journal of Nursing

|October 7, 2008

Summary

Positivism, a dominant philosophy of science, influences both quantitative and qualitative nursing research methodologies. Understanding philosophy of science, especially epistemology, is crucial for researchers to clarify their research context.

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Area of Science:

Philosophy of Science
Nursing Research Epistemology

Context:

Positivism is historically dominant in philosophy of science.
Nursing quantitative research often adopts positivism as its epistemological foundation.
Qualitative research methodologies may also reflect positivistic principles.

Purpose:

To examine the influence of positivism on qualitative research methodologies, using grounded theory and phenomenology as examples.
To support arguments with evidence on positivism's impact on research procedures.
To encourage novice researchers to understand the philosophy of social sciences.

Summary:

This article analyzes how positivism, a prevalent philosophy of science, shapes nursing research, including qualitative approaches like grounded theory and phenomenology.
It argues that positivism's influence extends beyond quantitative studies, impacting qualitative methodologies.
The study emphasizes the importance of understanding epistemologies and methodologies within the philosophy of social sciences for researchers.

Impact:

Enhances understanding of philosophical underpinnings in nursing research.
Provides clarity on the epistemological context for conducting research.
Encourages a more informed approach to research design and methodology selection.