If we can imagine it, we can build it: Developing Complexity Theory-Informed Methodologies

Abstract

Seemingly intractable or ‘wicked’ problems are often characterised by the complexity and uncertainty involved. However, these characteristics are not always accounted for within research design. How health care systems may effectively respond to intimate partner violence presents a complex research problem. Researchers have been challenged to account for contextual influences when responding to intimate partner violence. However, theoretical perspectives and methodologies have not sufficiently evolved to account for the multi-layered complexity and uncertainty involved. Recognising and responding to this challenge offers opportunities to innovate methodologies and methods capable of evolving alongside learning. We present a complexity-led research design to study improving primary care service delivery to those impacted by intimate partner violence in Aotearoa New Zealand.