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Doing synchronous online focus groups with young people: Methodological reflections

Fox, Fiona E.; Morris, Marianne; Rumsey, Nichola

Authors

Fiona E. Fox

Marianne Morris



Abstract

Although online focus groups are emerging as a worthwhile methodological approach for qualitative researchers, reporting has been constrained in several ways. The majority of studies report asynchronous groups, whereas others employ synchronous exchanges, the efficacy of which with young people has seldom been explored. Considering the popularity of the Internet as a communication tool for young people, this missed opportunity is surprising. Based on a series of synchronous online focus groups with young people, the authors explore why this approach might be an effective way of engaging young people with appearance-related concerns in research. In this article, they discuss the process of hosting and moderating synchronous online focus groups, highlighting some of the ethical, pragmatic, and personal challenges that might face researchers using this method. Through a reflexive approach, they intend to inform and encourage qualitative researchers to consider alternative ways of engaging young people in research. © 2007 Sage Publications.

Citation

Fox, F. E., Morris, M., & Rumsey, N. (2007). Doing synchronous online focus groups with young people: Methodological reflections. Qualitative Health Research, 17(4), 539-547. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049732306298754

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Apr 1, 2007
Journal Qualitative Health Research
Print ISSN 1049-7323
Electronic ISSN 1552-7557
Publisher SAGE Publications
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 17
Issue 4
Pages 539-547
DOI https://doi.org/10.1177/1049732306298754
Keywords synchronous online focus groups, young people
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1028645
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1049732306298754