Methodology

The strategy for designing and conducting qualitative research within MEASURE DHS draws on recent advances in qualitative research methods in anthropology and sociology. It makes connections between theory and everyday events in research designs and emphasizes the ways that qualitative and quantitative approaches to the study of social interaction can complement one another. This strategy focuses on local terms, concepts and practices to achieve understanding, and explores the social and cultural contexts within which events occur. For example, a study might seek to understand how groups and individuals accomplish certain tasks such as seeking treatment for a sick child, finding an effective way to delay pregnancy, introducing complementary foods to a young child who is breast-feeding, or finding ways to avoid infections from sexually transmitted diseases.

Qualitative research can be used to examine social and cultural dynamics in many areas including family planning, reproductive health, HIV/AIDS, child health, and adult health. The ultimate goal of this research is to inform policy and advise development programs that work with issues in health, population, and nutrition.

In the domains of public health and health communication, qualitative research usually involves the use of focus groups and in-depth interviews to collect information. While such techniques may occasionally be used in DHS, the techniques of qualitative research available for data collection vary more widely, and include observations, participation, rapid assessment procedures, various types of individual or group interviews, personal narratives, and content analysis of medical records and other documents.  Data analysis and report writing is carried out by experienced anthropologists working with colleagues familiar with local contexts.  The analysis may involve the use of qualitative analysis software and/or community participation.