Paidéia (Ribeirão Preto) (Dec 2023)

Focus Groups in Brazilian Research: Current Scenario and Methodological Challenges

  • Sônia Maria Guedes Gondim,
  • Laila Leite Carneiro,
  • Franciane Andrade de Morais,
  • Liana Santos Alves Peixoto,
  • Daniela Campos Bahia Moscon,
  • Rayana Santedicola Andrade

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1590/1982-4327e3324
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 33

Abstract

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Abstract Based on an integrative review, this study aimed to critically discuss the use of focus groups in empirical research in Brazilian Psychology over the last two decades and to qualify the methodological decisions of those who opt for this approach. Scopus, Web of Science, and SciELO were consulted, finding 62 articles in national journals in the area. The primary contexts of use were work, education, health, and social, with wide theoretical diversity. There has been a significant growth of the technique in research in Psychology since 2002, despite the need for improvement in the description of selection procedures, group composition, number of participants, the script for conducting, analysis, and presentation of results. However, it is necessary to ensure alignment between objective, theory, and method to improve the use of focus groups in psychological interventions.

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