THE USE OF QUALITATIVE METHODS IN RESEARCH ON OLDER FAMILIES

This paper argues that qualitative methods are especially appropriate for studying older families because they are better suited than survey data for conceptualizing interdependence. It further argues that the current availability of data from large-scale surveys has led family r esearchers down the wrong path if the interdependence of family member s is to be recognized and explored in research. The absence of clearcu t rules for conducting and presenting the products of qualitative rese arch is suggested as a virtue rather than the drawback it is often pre sumed to be.