Reclaiming Dialogue: Focus groups and Hermeneutic Phenomenology

Area of Science:

• Qualitative Research Methods
• Phenomenological Inquiry
• Hermeneutic Philosophy

Background:

• Focus groups are often debated in phenomenological research.
• Critiques suggest they may reduce individual depth.
• Hermeneutic traditions emphasize dialogue and situated meaning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To re-evaluate the role of focus groups in phenomenological research.
• To demonstrate how focus groups can align with phenomenological principles.
• To propose methods for integrating focus groups effectively.

Main Methods:

• Grounded in Gadamerian hermeneutics.
• Discusses methodological adaptations for focus groups.
• Suggests combining focus groups with individual interviews.

Main Results:

• Focus groups, used reflexively, can deepen phenomenological understanding.
• Group interaction can facilitate co-construction of meaning.
• Methodological adaptations address concerns like conformity and loss of individual voice.

Conclusions:

• Focus groups can enrich phenomenological inquiry when thoughtfully integrated.
• They reveal how meaning unfolds through shared dialogue and reflection.
• This approach enhances exploration of relational and social dimensions of lived experience.