I’m adding the syllabus for you to use to find a problem/issue within the critical psychology field. Please use the syllabus as sources for the paper also. Here are the paper instructions: Based on the syllabus, prepare a problem within a topic that interests you in critical psychology and which can be answered using a qualitative method. Based on the syllabus, you should write a outline/example of a research design with the following content: -What kind of qualitative method do you choose, and why? -How do you recruit a sample/selection, choosing a text or context to study -How do you want to analyze your data? -Give a brief account of the reflexivity, reliability, validity, and generalizability of your study.

QUESTION

I’m adding the syllabus for you to use to find a problem/issue within the critical psychology field. Please use the syllabus as sources for the paper also.

Here are the paper instructions:
Based on the syllabus, prepare a problem within a topic that interests you in critical psychology and which can be answered using a qualitative method.
Based on the syllabus, you should write a outline/example of a research design with the following content:
-What kind of qualitative method do you choose, and why?
-How do you recruit a sample/selection, choosing a text or context to study
-How do you want to analyze your data?
-Give a brief account of the reflexivity, reliability, validity, and generalizability of your study.

ANSWER

Examining the Marginalization of Mental Health in the Digital Age: A Qualitative Research Design

Introduction

Critical psychology offers a unique lens through which to explore the societal factors that contribute to the marginalization of mental health issues. In this research design, we aim to investigate the challenges faced by individuals seeking mental health support in the digital age. By employing a qualitative research method, we can delve into individuals’ lived experiences and perspectives, allowing for a nuanced understanding of the problem. This research design outlines the choice of qualitative method, recruitment strategies, data analysis techniques, and reflexivity, reliability, validity, and generalizability considerations.

Qualitative Method

For this study, we choose a phenomenological approach as our qualitative method. Phenomenology focuses on understanding and interpreting individual experiences within a specific context (Neubauer et al., 2019). This method aligns well with our objective of exploring the challenges faced by individuals seeking mental health support in the digital age, as it allows us to capture rich and detailed descriptions of their experiences.

Sample Selection

To recruit a sample for this study, we will employ purposive sampling. We will target individuals who have sought mental health support through digital platforms, such as online forums, social media groups, or teletherapy services (Alhazmi & Kaufmann, 2022). This sample selection strategy will help us gather a diverse range of experiences and perspectives related to the marginalization of mental health in the digital age.

Data Analysis

The data collected through interviews and focus groups will be analyzed using thematic analysis. Thematic analysis involves identifying and organizing patterns, themes, and categories within the data (Gill, 2020). This approach will extract meaningful insights from the participants’ narratives, enabling us to identify common challenges, barriers, and opportunities related to mental health support in the digital age.

Reflexivity, Reliability, Validity, and Generalizability:

Reflexivity: Throughout the research process, we will maintain reflexivity by acknowledging our own biases, assumptions, and preconceived notions. This self-awareness will be crucial in ensuring that our interpretations remain grounded in the participants’ perspectives.

Reliability: To enhance reliability, we will employ techniques such as member checking, where participants will have the opportunity to review and validate the findings. Additionally, we will maintain detailed records of our research process and decisions to ensure transparency and reproducibility.

Validity: To enhance the validity of the study, we will employ various strategies, such as triangulation of data sources (interviews, focus groups), and prolonged engagement with the data. This will help ensure that our interpretations are well-supported and representative of the participants’ experiences.

Generalizability: Due to the qualitative nature of this research, generalizability is not a primary goal. Instead, our focus will be on providing in-depth insights into the experiences of individuals seeking mental health support in the digital age. However, the findings may inform further research and contribute to a broader understanding of the topic.

Conclusion

By employing a qualitative research design rooted in critical psychology, this study aims to shed light on the marginalization of mental health in the digital age. Through a phenomenological approach, purposive sampling, thematic analysis, and careful consideration of reflexivity, reliability, validity, and generalizability, we anticipate gaining valuable insights into the challenges faced by individuals seeking digital mental health support. This study’s findings can inform interventions, policies, and practices aimed at addressing the marginalization of mental health in an increasingly digital society.

References

Alhazmi, A. A., & Kaufmann, A. (2022). Phenomenological Qualitative Methods Applied to the Analysis of Cross-Cultural Experience in Novel Educational Social Contexts. Frontiers in Psychology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.785134 

Gill, M. J. (2020). Phenomenology as qualitative methodology. ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/341104030_Phenomenology_as_qualitative_methodology 

Neubauer, B., Witkop, C., & Varpio, L. (2019). How phenomenology can help us learn from the experiences of others. Perspectives on Medical Education, 8(2), 90–97. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40037-019-0509-2