Description
Transition to parenthood affects both partners. To understand dynamics and sense-making within this time of change, the perspective of both partners should be taken into account. Multiple perspective interviews (MPIs) involve interviewing members of a social group separately and triangulating their accounts during analysis to gain insights into the functioning of families. The integration of perspectives allows for a richer understanding of family dynamics. In addition to individual accounts, dynamics and negotiation processes within the couple can bereconstructed. However, the integration of perspectives is a challenging endeavor. Such approaches are inherently challenging due to the complexity and volume of data involved. Little attention has been paid to the methodological challenges of data analysis in multiple perspectives, particularly with dissonant data. To illustrate the importance of this aspect, we draw on the triangulation metaphor and related epistemological and ontological perspectives, which determine analytic choices and thus yield different forms of knowledge. We show how triangulating
perspectives can extend individual-level results, but also how researchers should go beyond a descriptive level of analysis for convergent and dissonant accounts to realize the potential of MPIs. Convergence should not be assumed too hastily, yet, there might be dissonance that cannot be resolved. (Self-)reflection on epistemological views, interpretive practice, and the purpose of MPI as well as their interrelation can increase the strengths of MPI approaches. This in turn can strengthen current family research and broaden the perspective from single family members to a more holistic understanding.
| Period | 2 Sept 2021 |
|---|---|
| Event title | 15th ESA Conference 2021 |
| Event type | Conference |
| Location | SpainShow on map |