Understanding the experience of stroke: a mixed-method research agenda

Gerontologist. 2009 Jun;49(3):293-302. doi: 10.1093/geront/gnp047. Epub 2009 Apr 22.

Abstract

The use of both quantitative and qualitative strategies to examine a single research question has been a subject of considerable controversy and still remains a largely uncommon practice in the sociology of health and illness. Yet, when seeking to understand the meaning of a chronic disabling condition in later life from a social psychological perspective, a mixed-method approach is likely to provide the most comprehensive picture. This article provides an overview of the usefulness and appropriateness of a mixed-method approach to understanding the stroke experience. I comment on the current state of research on the experience of stroke, including epistemological and ontological orientations. Using real data examples, I address paradigmatic assumptions, methods of integration, as well as challenges and pitfalls in integrating methods. I conclude by considering future directions in this field of research.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Disabled Persons / psychology
  • Evaluation Studies as Topic*
  • Humans
  • Personal Satisfaction
  • Qualitative Research*
  • Research Design
  • Stroke / psychology*