International Journal of Qualitative Methods (Feb 2023)

Conducting Life History Interviews With Older Adults With Lived Experiences of Poverty: Reflections From Millennial and Gen Z Researchers

  • Crystal Kwan,
  • Ho Chung Tam,
  • Xin Yu Lin,
  • Yan Ho Chung,
  • Tak Shuen Mah

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/16094069231159788
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 22

Abstract

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The life history approach, a common interviewing method within the social sciences, involves collecting longitudinal data retrospectively by seeking an individual’s account of their life over different periods of time. The exploratory, in-depth and narrative nature of life history interviews make it a compelling narrative method that can illicit rich and in-depth data and understanding (of the “other” and self). At the same time, this attribute raises various ethical complexities that must be considered. This paper documents the personal and professional reflections of a research team conducting life history interviews for a specific research project. It highlights the value of life history interview as a narrative method, and discusses the ethical complexities that can arise.