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Focus Groups in Mental Health Research: Enhancing the Validity of User and Provider Questionnaires

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  • Richard A. Powell

    (Psych. Mental Health Research Unit, Postgraduate Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter EX2 5DW, England)

  • Helen M. Single

    (Psych. Mental Health Research Unit, Postgraduate Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter EX2 5DW, England)

  • Keith R. Lloyd

    (Psych. Mental Health Research Unit, Postgraduate Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter EX2 5DW, England)

Abstract

Most mental health researchers rely upon quantitative methods of data collection. Whilst such methods are commonly seen as reliable, qualitative methods are often seen as more valid. Despite the value of qualitative methods of data collection, however, many researchers denigrate their use. Qualitative research is often viewed as lacking in scientific rigour. This paper explores the use of the focus group as a qualitative instrument to enhance the validity of existing questionnaires for mental health service users and providers. Between July and August 1995 four focus groups were conducted in Exeter and Taunton among service users (with severe or long-term mental health problems) and providers (community psychiatric nurses, social workers and occupational therapists). It is demonstrated that focus groups enhance the validity of existing questionnaires by highlighting those concerns held by users and providers that would otherwise have been neglected.

Suggested Citation

  • Richard A. Powell & Helen M. Single & Keith R. Lloyd, 1996. "Focus Groups in Mental Health Research: Enhancing the Validity of User and Provider Questionnaires," International Journal of Social Psychiatry, , vol. 42(3), pages 193-206, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socpsy:v:42:y:1996:i:3:p:193-206
    DOI: 10.1177/002076409604200303
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Mitra, Ananda, 1994. "Use of focus groups in the design of recreation needs assessment questionnaires," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 17(2), pages 133-140.
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    3. Alyson Callan & Roland Littlewood, 1998. "Patient Satisfaction: Ethnic Origin or Explanatory Model?," International Journal of Social Psychiatry, , vol. 44(1), pages 1-11, March.
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