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Why we need qualitative research in suicidology.
Heidi Hjelmeland1, Birthe Loa Knizek
1Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim NO-7491, Norway. Heidi.Hjelmeland@svt.ntnu.no
Suicide & Life-Threatening Behavior
|February 23, 2010
Summary
Suicidology research is stuck in repetitive studies due to its focus on quantitative explanations. Shifting to qualitative understanding is crucial for advancing the field of suicide research.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Current suicidology research predominantly employs quantitative methodologies.
- This reliance on quantitative methods primarily focuses on generating explanations for suicidal behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the current state of suicidological research.
- To propose a methodological shift to enhance the field's progress.
Main Methods:
- Philosophical analysis differentiating between scientific explanation and understanding.
- Critical review of existing suicidological research methodologies.
Main Results:
- Demonstration of an almost exclusive use of quantitative methodology in mainstream suicidology.
- Identification of this methodological bias as a cause of repetitive and stagnant research.
Conclusions:
- The current focus on explanations has led suicidology into a research dead-end.
- Increased emphasis on understanding, utilizing qualitative methodologies, is essential for future advancements in suicidology.
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