Case Studies (A2 only)
Psychology: AQA A Level, topic 7.3.8
Case Studies
A case study is an in-depth study, using a range of methods on one person or a small group.
Explanation of case studies
- Because a case study uses a range of different research methods, this increases reliability by the process of triangulation (using a range of different methods to increase reliability).
- Using a range of different methods is a way of double-checking results.
- Examples of case studies include Freud’s (1909) Little Hans and KF and HM examples of brain damaged patients in memory.
Strengths of case studies
- Triangulation – internal reliability.
- In-depth and detailed.
Limitations of case studies
- Lack external reliability – cannot generalise.
- Time consuming.
- Can be unethical.
Test yourself on Case Studies (A2 only)
What are the characteristics of a case study?
Which of these is NOT a limitation of case studies?