ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the use of theory within qualitative social work research and its relation to philosophical perspectives. We also explore what we mean by theory and also how it may support the role of the researcher. We consider three key types of theory within qualitative research, including positivism, interpretive and critical theory, before finally looking at some of the philosophical components of qualitative research, including with a case example from a recent project. We begin by looking at the meaning and use of theory within qualitative social work research.
