Abstract

VITORELLI DINIZ LIMA FAGUNDES, Karolina et al. Speaking of Participant Observation in qualitative research in the process of health-illness. Index Enferm [online]. 2014, vol.23, n.1-2, pp.75-79. ISSN 1699-5988.  https://dx.doi.org/10.4321/S1132-12962014000100016.

This study used a theoretical review of the main features of Participant Observation in healthcare. Such an approach is needed because of the increased use of qualitative strategies in health research, as well as the need to broaden knowledge about the observation, since the researcher is the main resource used. Thus, the aim of this is to make an explanation about what is participant observation, what their features and when and how to use it, emphasizing the importance and peculiarities of the process of entering the field, the practice of participant observation and exit the field. The analysis of this information shows that this is not a simplistic method, but a systematic technique that allows the researcher to participate in intense experiences of groups that need to be better understood.

Keywords : Participant Observation; Health; Qualitative Research.