Qualitative interviewing in a field of strong, collective narratives. The uses of active interviewing

• In Event: Methodology and law enforcement

Abstract

Several researchers have rightly criticized interview-based studies for confusing the stories told with what happens in reality. In an article on police subculture, Waddington warns against taking what police officers say in interviews at face value. Without further reflection on the answers given, what researchers may get are not stories about actual police work, but generalized beliefs and collective narratives - often dominated by "war stories". And this problem arises when researchers rely too heavily on what police officers say. Drawing on a study of police students, and using qualitative interviewing as the main method, I will argue that by using the technique of active (or confrontational) interviewing, we might be able to provide more sober interpretations by getting "behind" superficial representations and idealized narratives.

Author

• Pål Winnæss, The Norwegian Uni Police Col.