Benchmark Qualitative
Research Reporting
Benchmark Qualitative Research Reporting
Tarik L. Jefferson
Liberty University
Couc 515: Research and Program Evaluation
Author Note
I have no known conflict of interest to disclose
Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Tarik Jefferson
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Benchmark Qualitative Research Reporting
The researchers sought to explore youth’s motivation for using technology and how it
impacts their daily functioning. The researchers identified two overarching themes: (1) the use
of technology as their main source of peer connection and (2) the use of technology when it is
expected of them.
The study design used in this scenario is consensual qualitative research. The other
methods do not fit the case scenario. The research team used a small sample size of 10, and
after an initial screening survey, the participants were then interviewed to discuss their use of
technology.
In the first theme of youth using technology as their main source of peer connection,
students discussed how they use technology to interact with friends, especially after school.
Melissa said, “I’m in school all day long and when I get home I want to be able
to talk to my friends.” The researchers concluded, “a complicating factor is that
many youth use technology everyday as a source of connection and socializing; therefore,
researchers determine it would be helpful to better understand the motivation for youth’s use
of technology and how their use influences their behaviors.”
The second theme of youth using technology when it is expected of them, even though
it was a method of them to connect with peers, the quotes were out of obligation. Krista said, “I
have over a thousand followers on Instagram so I have to post everyday so they keep following
me.” Although Instagram is a method to connect with peers, Krista is posting because she feels
obligated to. Ruth said, “Even when I’m with my family I can’t help but look at my phone.
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Research Reporting
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There is not a minute that I’m not getting a text or snapchat from my friends.” Ruth is expected
to return communication, even when she is with her family.
These two themes suggest that technology is essential for connecting the youth,
however the concern for addiction and mood disorders can be valid. Daily, youth are using
technology to communicate with each other, all the time. To have fun, maintain an image, and
even cultivate relationships, all require the use of technology.
This study suggest that technology is essential for peer connection, but can take away
from other aspects of life, and making connections in real life. I feel this study is essential for
the counseling field, and could be done on a larger scale. Technology is not going away anytime
soon and the social pressures it brings could be fatal to our youth without proper care.
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