Approaches to Sociological Research
Using the scientific method, a researcher conducts a study in six phases: asking a question, researching existing sources, formulating a hypothesis, research design, collecting & analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. The scientific method is useful in that it provides a clear method of organizing a study. Some sociologists conduct research through an interpretive framework rather than employing the scientific method.
Scientific sociological studies often observe relationships between variables. Researchers study how one variable influences another. Prior to conducting a study, researchers are careful to apply operational definitions to their terms and to establish dependent and independent variables.
Research Methods
Sociological research is a fairly complex process. As you can see, a lot goes into even a simple research design. There are many steps and much to consider when collecting data on human behavior, as well as in interpreting and analyzing data in order to form conclusive results. Sociologists use the scientific methods for good reasons. The scientific method provides a system of organization to help researchers plan and conduct a study to ensure data and results are reliable, valid, and objective.
The many methods available to researchers—including experiments, surveys, participant observation, ethnography, case study, and secondary data analysis—all come with advantages and disadvantages. The strength of a study can depend on the choice and implementation of the appropriate method of gathering data. Depending on the topic, a study might use a single method or a combination of methods. It is important to plan a research design before undertaking a study. The information gathered may in itself be surprising, and the study design should provide a solid framework in which to analyze predicted and unpredicted data.
| Method | Implementation | Advantages | Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Survey | QuestionnairesInterviews | Yields many responsesCan survey a large sampleQuantitative data are easy to chart | Can be time consumingCan be difficult to encourage participant responseCaptures what people think and believe but not necessarily how they behave in real life |
| Field Work | Participant observationEthnographyCase study | Yields detailed, accurate real-life information | Time consumingData captures how people behave but not what they think and believeQualitative data is difficult to organize |
| Experiment | Deliberate manipulation of social customs and mores | Tests cause and effect relationships | Hawthorne EffectEthical concerns about people’s wellbeing |
| Secondary Data Analysis | Analysis of government data (census, health, crime statistics)Research of historic documents | Makes good use of previous sociological information | Data could be focused on a purpose other than yoursData can be hard to find |
Ethical Concerns
Sociologists and sociology students must take ethical responsibility for any study they conduct. They must first and foremost guarantee the safety of their participants. Whenever possible, they must ensure that participants have been fully informed consent before participating in a study.
The American Sociological Association (ASA) establishes parameters for ethical guidelines that sociologists must take into account as they conduct research. The guidelines address conducting studies, properly using existing sources, accepting funding, and publishing results. Unfortunately, the code of ethics were not in existence and in some cases researchers did not adhere to ASA guidelines resulting in unethical practices in which humans were caused either physical or psychological harm.
Sociologists must try to maintain value neutrality. They must gather and analyze data objectively and set aside their personal preferences, beliefs, and opinions. They must report findings accurately, even if they contradict personal values and convictions.
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