ABSTRACT
There is an onus on those conducting qualitative research to ensure that the practices and procedures adopted are sufficiently transparent and robust to produce credible research outcomes. Without demonstrated evidence of credibility, the impact of qualitative research on the development of new knowledge, theory, law, policy or practice reform is compromised. Drawing on a study of young people in the criminal justice system, this chapter discusses the use of indicators for assessing research credibility in the qualitative domain and demonstrates the application of practical strategies to enhance quality outcomes. In this study, strategies adopted included critical reflection, methodical recording of fieldwork annotations and observations, systematic interrogation of data in the analysis process, external review and the production of an audit trail. The latter incorporated comprehensive documentation on the processes undertaken at every stage of the research and provided the evidence to demonstrate rigour and transparency throughout the entire study.
