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Do Qualitative Data Help in Addressing Central American Violence? Research Note on Data Collection

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  • Oettler, Anika

Abstract

Taking as its point of departure debates on the value of criminal statistics and victimization surveys, this article explores the methodological challenge of an alternative approach to Central American violence(s). How can we collect qualitative data that help address the social construction of (in)security? The research project 'Public Spaces and Violence in Central America' used multiple data sources, including guided interviews and pupils' essays. Drawing on research experience in Nicaragua, this paper asks, How can we collect data that reveal lifeworld experiences as well as hegemonic and counter-discourses on violence? Why is it crucial to keep a research diary? What is a 'failed' or a 'good' interview? This article argues for a research design based on theoretical considerations, impulsiveness and, most notably, constant self-reflection.

Suggested Citation

  • Oettler, Anika, 2008. "Do Qualitative Data Help in Addressing Central American Violence? Research Note on Data Collection," GIGA Working Papers 76, GIGA German Institute of Global and Area Studies.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:gigawp:76
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Huhn, Sebastian & Oettler, Anika & Peetz, Peter, 2006. "Construyendo Inseguridades. Aproximaciones a la violencia en Centroamérica desde el análisis del discurso [Constructed insecurities. Discourse analysis and the understanding of violence in Central ," GIGA Working Papers 34, GIGA German Institute of Global and Area Studies.
    2. Huhn, Sebastian, 2008. "Discourses on Violence in Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Nicaragua: Social Perceptions in Everyday Life," GIGA Working Papers 81, GIGA German Institute of Global and Area Studies.
    3. Oettler, Anika, 2007. "Discourses on Violence in Costa Rica, El Salvador and Nicaragua: National Patterns of Attention and Cross-border Discursive Nodes," GIGA Working Papers 65, GIGA German Institute of Global and Area Studies.
    4. Huhn, Sebastian & Oettler, Anika & Peetz, Peter, 2006. "Exploding Crime? Topic Management in Central American Newspapers," GIGA Working Papers 33, GIGA German Institute of Global and Area Studies.
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    Cited by:

    1. Peetz, Peter, 2008. "Discourses on Violence in Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Nicaragua: Youth, Crime, and the Responses of the State," GIGA Working Papers 80, GIGA German Institute of Global and Area Studies.

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