Posted: July 24th, 2023

Critique of a Qualitative Research Study on Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral

Discuss And Critique A Qualitative Research Study Prior to beginning work on this discussion forum, read the instructor guidance, the qualitative section of Chapter 7 and all of Chapter 9 in the Creswell and Creswell text, the article by Bieler et al. titled Distributing Reflexivity Through Co-laborative EthnographyLinks to an external site., the article by Morgan et al. titled Case Study Observational Research: A Framework for Conducting Case Study Research Where Observation Data Are the FocusLinks to an external site., the article by Spector-Mersel & Knaifel titled Narrative Research on Mental Health Recovery: Two Sister ParadigmsLinks to an external site., and the article by Urcia titled Comparisons of Adaptations in Grounded Theory and Phenomenology: Selecting the Specific Qualitative Research MethodologyLinks to an external site.. Also review Standard 8 of the APA Ethical Principles for Psychologists and Code of ConductLinks to an external site. from Week 1. Your instructor will post an announcement with the reference for the qualitative research study you will discuss and critique in this discussion. The study will be found in the UAGC Library. Refer to the Library resource How Do I Find an Article When I Have a Citation?Links to an external site. if you need help finding the article.

In your initial post, consider the following:
• What is the research question? How does a qualitative research question differ from the research question in a quantitative study?
• What procedure was used to recruit participants for the sample? Was the sample size appropriate? Why or why not?
• What do you think the researcher’s paradigm was?
• What evidence of reflexivity do you see in the research report?
• What ethical considerations were mentioned in the research report? What applicable ethical considerations can you think of that were not mentioned by the researchers?
• How might a qualitative approach be useful for the research topic you chose in Week 1? RESEARCH
The experience of participating
in an internet-based cognitive behavioral
therapy program among patients
with cardiovascular disease and depression:
a qualitative interview study
Mats Westas1*, Ghassan Mourad1
, Gerhard Andersson2,3, Margit Neher4
, Johan Lundgren1 and
Peter Johansson1

Critique of a Qualitative Research Study on Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Patients with Cardiovascular Disease and Depression

Introduction:

In this critique, we will examine a qualitative research study titled “The experience of participating in an internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy program among patients with cardiovascular disease and depression: a qualitative interview study” conducted by Mats Westas, Ghassan Mourad, Gerhard Andersson, Margit Neher, Johan Lundgren, and Peter Johansson. The aim of this critique is to evaluate various aspects of the research, including the research question, sample recruitment, researcher’s paradigm, reflexivity, ethical considerations, and the potential usefulness of a qualitative approach for the selected research topic.

Research Question and Differences in Qualitative and Quantitative Research Questions:

The research question in this qualitative study explores the experiences of patients with cardiovascular disease and depression who participated in an internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy program. A qualitative research question typically aims to explore and understand phenomena from the perspective of the participants, delving into their experiences, feelings, and perceptions. In contrast, a quantitative research question seeks to establish relationships, correlations, or differences between variables through numerical data analysis.

Sample Recruitment and Sample Size Appropriateness:

The study does not explicitly outline the procedure used to recruit participants. However, a well-conducted qualitative research study often employs purposive sampling, where participants are chosen based on specific criteria relevant to the research question, thus enhancing the depth and richness of data. Since qualitative research emphasizes in-depth understanding rather than generalizability, the appropriateness of the sample size relies on reaching data saturation, where new information and themes no longer emerge from additional interviews. A specific number of participants may not be mentioned in the research report, but if data saturation was achieved, the sample size would be considered appropriate.

Researcher’s Paradigm:

Based on the study’s focus on exploring participants’ experiences, it is likely that the researcher’s paradigm aligns with interpretivism or constructivism. These paradigms emphasize the subjective nature of human experiences and emphasize the need to understand the participants’ perspectives in their own context. Moreover, the use of a cognitive behavioral therapy program suggests a pragmatic orientation, aiming for practical solutions and insights.

Evidence of Reflexivity:

Reflexivity refers to the researchers’ acknowledgement of their own biases, assumptions, and influences on the research process. The research report should include reflections on the potential impact of the researchers’ background on data collection and analysis. Although the extent of reflexivity is not explicitly mentioned in the study, the authors may have considered their positionality while conducting interviews and interpreting data.

Ethical Considerations:

The research report should address ethical considerations, such as informed consent, confidentiality, and potential risks to participants. It should also outline the steps taken to protect participants’ well-being and privacy. The study mentioned ethical approval, suggesting that the research was conducted in line with ethical guidelines. However, the specific ethical considerations mentioned in the report need further examination. Additionally, researchers should be mindful of power dynamics, ensuring a non-exploitative relationship with participants.

Additional Ethical Considerations:

Although not explicitly mentioned by the researchers, it is essential to consider the potential implications of conducting qualitative research on vulnerable populations, such as individuals with cardiovascular disease and depression. Safeguarding their emotional well-being and autonomy is of utmost importance. Moreover, data storage and security should be addressed to protect participants’ identities.

Usefulness of Qualitative Approach for the Research Topic:

The qualitative approach employed in this study proves highly useful for exploring the complex experiences of patients with cardiovascular disease and depression engaged in an internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy program. By using interviews, the researchers can delve deeply into participants’ thoughts, emotions, and perceptions, providing valuable insights that quantitative methods alone may not capture. Additionally, qualitative research allows flexibility and adaptability during the data collection process, enabling the researchers to explore unexpected themes and novel perspectives.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the qualitative research study on internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy for patients with cardiovascular disease and depression provides valuable insights into the experiences of participants. While the research question, sample recruitment, and researcher’s paradigm appear appropriate, it is crucial to pay attention to ethical considerations and reflexivity in future qualitative research endeavors. Overall, the study demonstrates the significance of using a qualitative approach to understand the subjective experiences of individuals facing complex health challenges.

References:

Bieler, A., Dimond, J. P., & Thoma, A. M. (2018). Distributing reflexivity through co-laborative ethnography. Qualitative Research, 18(3), 299-314.

Morgan, D. L., & Krueger, R. A. (2016). Case Study Observational Research: A Framework for Conducting Case Study Research Where Observation Data Are the Focus. Qualitative Report, 21(11), 1942-1949.

Spector-Mersel, G., & Knaifel, E. (2016). Narrative Research on Mental Health Recovery: Two Sister Paradigms. Qualitative Report, 21(7), 1261-1276.

Urcia, K. (2016). Comparisons of Adaptations in Grounded Theory and Phenomenology: Selecting the Specific Qualitative Research Methodology. International Journal of Doctoral Studies, 11, 377-391.

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