Includes bibliographical references and index.

This case study illustrates the process of constructing and implementing a qualitative research design, focusing on key issues that may emerge when examining sensitive topics that are not widely researched. The two groups this study explores, people in mixed-orientation marriages (e.g., a gay person married to a straight person) and polyamorous couples (those who consensually agree to outside lovers), engage in deviant sexual practices and non-traditional relationship forms. As such, participants can experience complex emotions, face social stigma, and be difficult to access. To diminish these potential obstacles to research, this case study describes the processes necessary to create a substantial research question, to sample such populations successfully, to make appropriate considerations in Institutional Review Board (IRB) proposal preparation, and to develop an effective interview guide. The case study further includes examples and discussion of two interview techniques that may help to overcome participants' negative feelings so that they can speak more honestly about difficult issues.

Description based on XML content.

Licensed e-book