Chapter 13: Interview Techniques Used in Coping and Stress Mixed Methods Studies

Mixed methods researchers use a variety of interview techniques when collecting qualitative data (Bernardi, Keim, & Lippe, 2007; Christ, 2007; Rogers, Day, Randall & Bentall, 2003). Choosing an appropriate interviewing technique varies dependent upon the focus and intent of the research. Two longitudinal studies are presented in this chapter to highlight therapeutic and semi-structured interview techniques with focus upon their inherent strengths and limitations. The 09/11/01 study indicates how therapeutic interviews were used to explore coping and grieving processes over time with families that had a firefighter perish in the 09/11/01 World Trade Center attack. The disability support service study highlights how semistructured interview questions were implemented to examine the types of supports students with disabilities used as coping mechanisms in postsecondary education.