To assess the relationship between chronic disease and spatial inequality in a given area, researchers systematically observe and interview individuals in their communities. This is best described as which of the following?

Question

To assess the relationship between chronic disease and spatial inequality in a given area, researchers systematically observe and interview individuals in their communities.  This is best described as which of the following?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecba2d_0d4d_7fed_a3bf_bfc9f20b7b86_MD0008_00 Human behavior can be studied using quantitative or qualitative methods. Quantitative research starts with a hypothesis (a testable question) and objectively collects data that can be analyzed statistically. Quantitative methods attempt to eliminate all variables except those of interest. Because it is impossible to control all of the variables in a person's natural environment, sociological phenomena are most often assessed using qualitative methods. Qualitative research involves subjectively gathering information to determine the presence of a pattern. Ethnography is a qualitative method for the scientific study of human social phenomena. Using observation and interviews, ethnographies study people in their natural environments (within their own communities) and provide descriptive information about the cultures, behaviors, norms, and values in a given geographic location. Spatial inequality is the unequal geographical distribution of wealth resulting in the concentration of health-compromising factors (eg, pollution, crime) in lower-income neighborhoods. Researchers systematically observing and interviewing individuals in their communities to assess the relationship between chronic disease and spatial inequality are using ethnographic methods to study this complex social phenomenon. (Choice A) An experimental design is a quantitative approach whereby the researcher manipulates independent variables to measure their effect on dependent variables. It would be unethical to use an experimental design to assess the effects of spatial inequality on chronic disease as certain subjects would knowingly be exposed to substandard living conditions. (Choice C) Social network analysis is an epidemiological technique mapping connections between individuals to study the spread of communicable diseases in a population. Chronic diseases are more complex and do not lend themselves to social network analysis. (Choice D) Content analysis is a qualitative technique used to examine the text and images involved in human communication. It is used to assess one-on-one verbal communication, such as interview transcripts, or more widespread forms of communication, such as online content. Content analysis does not involve observations of individuals in their social environments. Educational objective: Ethnography scientifically studies individuals in their own communities to learn about culture, norms, and values within an area. Qualitative methods (eg, observation, interviews) are best for studying human social phenomena.

To Assess the Relationship Between Chronic Disease and Spatial Inequality