Disadvantages of using Structured interviews

Question 1

One disadvantage of using structured interviews is that they have a fixed set of questions and response categories, this means that the researcher imposes their worldview onto interviewees. This restricts interviewees from opening up and expressing their own subjective thoughts, feelings, and opinions. Interpretivists see this as a disadvantage because it prevents them from uncovering the true worldviews of participants.

Answer 1

However, positivists consider this structure an advantage, as it ensures all respondents answer the same questions in the same way, making the research more scientific and objective.

Question 2

Another disadvantage is the lack of validity due to the closed-ended questions. Interviewees may be unable to express how they truly feel, and fixed response categories might not align with their actual views. Additionally, interviewers must stick to the interview schedule, meaning they cannot clarify misunderstandings or ask follow up questions. Interpretivists see this as a limitation because it prevents researchers from gaining an authentic understanding.

Answer 2

However, positivists value this structure for its reliability, as the standardised format makes the research easily replicable.

Question 3

There is also a risk of social desirability that reduces validity. Structured interviews are social interactions, interviewees may alter their responses to present themselves in a positive light, this is also known as the Hawthorne effect. This can lead to exaggeration or dishonesty, further limiting the authenticity of the data. Interpretivists argue that this weakens the validity of findings.

Answer 3

However, structured interviews tend to have high response rates, as people find it hard to turn down more face to face interactions. This increases the representativeness of the sample, which positivists view as an advantage as it generalises findings to the wider population.

Question 4

Lastly, structured interviews lack verstehen, which is empathetic understanding. Since there is no rapport between the interviewer and interviewee, researchers cannot fully grasp the meanings behind responses.

Answer 4

However, positivists argue that the lack of rapport enhances objectivity. By focusing on asking questions and recording answers, the research remains free from bias, allowing positivists to establish social laws based on quantitative data.

Question 5

Conclusion

Answer 5

In conclusion, structured interviews have significant disadvantages, particularly from an interpretivist perspective. They limit interviewees’ ability to express their true thoughts, reduce validity due to closed ended questions and social desirability bias, and prevent researchers from developing an empathetic understanding. However, positivists see these limitations as advantages, as the standardised format enhances reliability, objectivity, and representativeness.