Combining quantitative and qualitative research - a case study from survey methodology

Abstract

This paper presents a case study of combining two different approaches to examine the content and continuity of a single-item survey measure of self-rated health. Results from a qualitative and a quantitative study are discussed in order to illustrate the way the methods can complement each other in methodological research of survey measures. The results of the two studies are discussed in relation to one another; and the potential advantages of combining methods in methodological research of survey measures are discussed also in more general terms. In addition, other ways of combining the approaches in methodological studies are suggested.