Abstract
This chapter presents the methodological and conceptual approach, which informed the research design for the study. It is pertinent to reiterate here that the design of this study sought to discern the positive psychological forces that shape subjective wellbeing of informal caregivers. This desire prompted the adoption of a mixed methods research. The rationale for this methodological preference is presented. In addition, advantages of mixed methods approach are elaborated upon. Furthermore, other issues are addressed, including sample size, instrumentation, and research procedures. This chapter also explains, with much detail, the parameters and boundary conditions that constituted the guiding assumptions, limitations, as well as delimitations of the study. It should be noted that the chapter also explains the essential approach to data analysis.
TopPurpose And Rationale Of Mixed Methods Research
The purpose of this study was to methodically examine the factors of self-efficacy, spirituality, social support, resilience, and leisure participation and their influence on the subjective wellbeing of informal caregivers. In carrying out its function in this manner, the chapter provides a description of the methods employed to conduct the research. Thus according to Creswell (2009), in the selection of a research design, the researcher’s decision should be based on the worldview and assumptions the researcher brings to the study, procedures of inquiry, and specific methods of data collection, analysis, and interpretation (p. 3). Zoellner (2017, p.683) defines mixed methods research as follows: “It explores phenomena utilizing a combination of QUAL and QUAN methods in a single inquiry to gain more complete perspective.” Zoellner (p.683) also considers mixed methods research the third research paradigm in addition to quantitative and qualitative research. In explaining the rationale for mixed methods research, Griensven, Moore and Hall (2014, p.308) intimate that mixed methods research “may be viewed as providing a complete and deeper understanding of the subject under investigation.” Zoellner (2017, p. 686) identified six mixed methods research designs to address research problems. They are as follows: 1) convergent parallel, 2) explanatory sequential, 3) exploratory sequential, 4) embedded, 5) transformative, and 6) multiphase.