Approaches to Study Wellbeing

Abstract

Because the concept of wellbeing encompasses so many different domains and disciplines, virtually any research method can be applied to its study. As such, this chapter is essentially an overview of the research methods relevant to the biomedical and social science fields in the broadest sense. A sound understanding of the benefits and limitations of different methods is critical in evaluating the potential merits of a study. Observational studies seek to describe the world and can be either quantitative, involving measurements and mathematical relationships, or qualitative, involving stories about personal experiences. Mixed methods designs incorporate and integrate both approaches. Correlational studies assess for relationships between variables. Interventional studies involve the manipulation of an independent variable, and if they involve randomization, are the closest researchers can come to proving causation. The chapter concludes with a discussion of design-based research and action research, which show how such inquiry can be used not just to study but also actively solve problems.