Smoking behaviour and interaction: the observation process in research

To those starting off on the research journey, the term 'qualitative research' can often seem a daunting prospect. The world of research methodology and theory is emerged in a rich history of its own terminology, meanings and experiences. Research and innovation are integral parts of the nurse practitioner's role, yet many have little understanding of the theoretical frameworks and methodologies surrounding the vast areas of qualitative and quantitative research. As part of a doctorate, the author undertook a small qualitative study, choosing her own method and question. Intrigued by the phenomenon of smoking addiction, she observed the behaviours and interactions of people who smoke. The focus of this article, however, is the process by which the study was carried out, rather than the observations themselves. This paper presents observational research from the perspective of a nurse practitioner embarking on a journey with qualitative designs.