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PubMed · 15779066

Maintaining your focus in focus groups: avoiding common mistakes.

Denise Côté-Arsenault·Dianne Morrison-Beedy
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Abstract

Focus groups are used frequently in nursing research as a method for collecting qualitative data. However, due to inadequate planning or execution, the results can be of poor quality or even worthless. A well-defined purpose, carefully planned environment, and well trained personnel are discussed as the cornerstones to focus group success. This article sets the stage with a description of a well conducted focus group, then provides examples and a critique of less-than-effective groups. Focus groups can be powerful and effective when their use is appropriate to the study purpose, the environment is non-judgmental and welcoming, and the personnel are skilled.

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EducationEnvironment DesignFocus GroupsGroup ProcessesHumansNursing ResearchJournal ArticleResearch Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Review

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Denise Côté-Arsenault, Dianne Morrison-Beedy. 2005. Maintaining your focus in focus groups: avoiding common mistakes.. https://doi.org/10.1002/nur.20063

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