The use of qualitative data in research has a number of positive aspects, as well as significant challenges. On the one hand, it is easy for a researcher to find non-numerical information through personal and online communication with participants and gather enough background material for a study. On the other hand, it is hard to choose the most appropriate method for its analysis and interpretation. Therefore, much time and many coding techniques may be required. In this paper, the expansion of the framework of qualitative research and a grounded theory study, in particular, will be developed to create several questions to support the discussion of mental problems in homeless youth.
Expansion of the Framework
Many ways to support the idea of qualitative research and gather enough information for answering the main questions exist. Grounded theory is one of the qualitative methods that is characterized by its flexibility and systematic strategies (Charmaz & Bryant, 2016). Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss are the founders of this method the essence of which is to construct new sociological theories by means of comparison of inductive data (Charmaz & Bryant, 2016). A grounded theory study aims to theorize different processes, develop new concepts, and promote analyses beyond descriptions. The research process according to this model begins with a properly developed research question. Then, the choice of participants occurs to begin data collection. As soon as theoretical categories are defined, coding has to be established through a constant comparative method (information that is offered by participants is combined with well-known terms and understandings). Finally, a new theory is built and disseminated in the project.
Youth homeless turns out to be a serious problem from social and psychiatric perspectives in the United States. Narendorf, Cross, Santa Maria, Swank, and Bordnick (2017) identify the relationship between mental health problems and illegal substance use. However, the list of factors that challenge the mental health of young people living on the streets is long and unpredictable, and it is important to investigate the situation using personal stories and new theories.
Questions
A grounded theory study is based on the information obtained from participants via the following questions:
Could you please share your experience as a homeless in the modern world?
- Have you ever experienced psychological traumas? Please give several vivid examples.
- What methods of coping with mental health problems do you know and use (why or why not)?
- How do you see your life within the next five-ten years?
- Are you aware of social organizations or healthcare facilities that can contribute to your mental health?
Conclusion
The main challenge in asking personal questions is the impossibility to predict participants’ reactions and attitudes towards the information that has to be gathered. In this case, the essence of grounded theory research is to find unique information on the topic of homeless and apply the obtained facts to several strong theories and approaches. Therefore, such ethical considerations as privacy and confidentiality have to be explained to participants individually. There are many reasons why people must live on streets, and in the majority of situations, it is hard to establish trustful relationships with homeless youth because of the already existing traumas, uncertainties, and frustration. Each word should be carefully chosen in order not to insult a participant or touch a personal topic. All rules and conditions for communication must be discussed beforehand with all research goals and intentions being clearly identified. Once young people understand their roles in the study, they can make final decisions about their participation in research.
References
Charmaz, K., & Bryant, A. (2016). Constructing ground theory analyses. In D. Silverman (Ed.), Qualitative research (4th ed.) (pp. 347-362). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE.
Narendorf, S. C., Cross, M. B., Santa Maria, D., Swank, P. R., & Bordnick, P. S. (2017). Relations between mental health diagnoses, mental health treatment, and substance use in homeless youth. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 175, 1–8. Web.