Methodological Challenges in Research with Vulnerable Families

Abstract

Researchers studying vulnerable families can face formidable impediments. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of methodological challenges commonly encountered in research with vulnerable family units or members and to suggest problem-solving strategies. The following issues are examined: (a) obstacles to identifying, accessing, recruiting, and retaining vulnerable families as research participants; (b) responsibilities of researchers concerning unanticipated health care crises, informed consent, and participant and researcher safety; and (c) issues in training clinicians as research team members. Examples are drawn from the literature as well as from family and family-related research studies conducted by the authors that involve both quantitative and qualitative designs, along with various family situations.