ABSTRACT
The two basic types of studies which can be developed from the symbolic interactionist view of the individual are as follows: Studies aimed at generating theory on the perspectives which participants hold with regards to something; and Studies aimed at generating theory on how participants 'manage', 'deal with', 'or 'cope with' a phenomenon. This chapter considers how to develop appropriate research questions for engaging in each of these two basic types of studies. Before moving to this, however, a number of points need to be clarified in order to get a clearer view of what each type involves. The symbolic interactionist in taking a non-judgemental approach, would be likely to speak in terms of the participant's regular absence from work, coming in late in the mornings, and drinking alcohol to excess as her way of managing his situation.
