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Abstract
This article provides a review of the method and approach of a study done on a research topic in the field of Political Science, namely the impact of organised criminal groups on social control by the state. Research can be regarded as the production of knowledge and the research process is the roadmap or guide used in order to produce knowledge about a specific topic under consideration. As a result of the sensitive nature of the research subject, particular care was taken in designing the research process that guided the study. This article offers an explanation of the specific research design and research methodology selected in order to analyse the features of the relationship between local governance, societies and organised criminal groups. The following elements are discussed: the case study research design, the qualitative research methodology, the field research process and research techniques, research ethics and, finally, basic safety while doing fieldwork.
Notes
1 The main findings of the study can be found in the following article: Lambrechts (Citation2012).
2 See also Lee (Citation1993, 101–102) on the notion that sensitive topics are not suited for survey research.
3 For example, see the study of Valdez and Kaplan (Citation1999) on Mexican-American gang members in the USA.
4 Direct observation can also be referred to as ‘simple observation’. The researcher remains an outside observer. This is opposed to participant observation, where the researcher forms part of the group that is studied, but also fulfils the role of the researcher (Babbie and Mouton Citation2001, 293). In addition, Gillham (Citation2000, 21) refers to ‘detached observation’ or the ‘fly on the wall approach’.
5 Bailey (Citation1996, 66–67) draws attention to the following elements to be observed with regard to physical surroundings: lighting, colour, smell, sounds, objects and weather and temperature.
6 Bailey (Citation1996, 67–69) draws attention to the following elements to be observed with regard to the observation of members: body language, verbal behaviours and characteristics of the speech and the speakers.
7 For more information on the advantages and disadvantages of observation, see Gillham (Citation2000, 45).
8 A collaboration of different methods can also be referred to as the ‘multi-method approach’ (Gillham Citation2000, 13).
9 Lee (Citation1993, 97–98) confirms that confessions or sharing information that are intimate or personally discrediting are easier when privacy and anonymity are guaranteed. Privacy, anonymity and confidentiality (among other aspects) create trust between the interviewer and the interviewee.
10 These elements are also mentioned by Bailey (Citation1996, 10–11). Although field researchers do not always agree on one set of ethical standards, informed consent is essential, based on the purpose of the study, procedures, risks and benefits, voluntary nature of their participation, right to stop the research, and confidentiality and anonymity. The research can only proceed if respondents understand and agree to these elements of the study.
11 See also Lee (Citation1993, 179–180) on protecting the confidentiality of data by storing them in a computer programme. It is believed that the securing of the confidentiality of the data collected in this study was increased by using a computer programme.