Qualitative research: why psychiatrists are well-placed to contribute to the literature

Objective: The aim of this paper is to outline and review some of the qualitative approaches - specifically interviewing and case studies - that can contribute to psychiatric research, and to highlight the existing skills that psychiatrists can bring to such approaches. Conclusions: Qualitative research methods are currently under-utilized in psychiatric research. Psychiatrists are well placed to utilize qualitative methodologies by applying the skills that they acquire through training and clinical practice. Psychiatrists wishing to conduct research might wish to consider and adopt qualitative methods where appropriate.