Qualitative Research Methods in Clinical Psychology: Theory and Clinical Applications

Course content

This course introduces students to the foundations of qualitative research in clinical psychology. It emphasizes the philosophical underpinnings of qualitative inquiry, examines key approaches such as grounded theory, phenomenology, narrative analysis, and case study, and develops practical skills for conducting and analyzing qualitative research. Students will learn how to design qualitative studies, collect and analyze data through interviews and observations, and apply coding and thematic analysis techniques. The course also addresses issues of reflexivity, ethics, and rigor in qualitative research. Through hands-on exercises and small-scale projects, students will gain experience in applying qualitative methods to clinical psychology, preparing them for independent research and critical engagement with qualitative literature.