What characterizes a case study in psychological research?

A case study in psychological research is characterized by an in-depth investigation of a single entity, which can be an individual, group, event, or community. This method allows researchers to gather detailed qualitative data and explore complex phenomena in a way that other research methods may not be able to achieve. The focus is on understanding the nuances of the subject's experiences, behaviors, and interactions within their specific context. This comprehensive approach helps to generate rich insights that can illuminate specific psychological issues, which may not be visible through broader quantitative methods.

The emphasis on individual or single entity analysis distinguishes case studies from other methodologies. While some research methods involve analyzing diverse groups or employing longitudinal data collection, game statistical generalization, these do not capture the depth and detail characteristic of case studies. The value of case studies lies in their ability to provide nuanced insights that can inform theory or practice, and sometimes they contribute to the development of broader hypotheses.