Triangulation in social work research: The theory and examples of its practical application

Abstract

Social work researchers in South Africa are often faced with the daunting task of having to analyse complex phenomena without an abundant supply of resources and standardised measuring instruments. This has necessitated a rethink of the way in which local research is done and to find a route that would meet both the demands of science and accommodate the constraints of research practice. One such route is the use of triangulation. In this article the nature, advantages and disadvantages of triangulation will be explored. It will also be illustrated with a research project utdertaken by Police Social Work Services.