Theories and Methods

The Phlegethon network is inspired by different theoretical approaches consisting of anthropological, educational and sociological. Though, Pierre Bourdieu’s sociological theories form the primary frame of the studies consisting of field, capital and strategy, which enables the researchers to focus on the reproductive mechanisms of treatment in the Scandinavian welfare state.

Empirical approaches:

The Phlegethon projects embrace and combine different theoretical and methodological approaches:

Litterature Studies:

  • Research on inequality in treatment, with focus on the Scandinavian welfare state and stroke and TBI.
  • Text journals from four professions (medicine, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and social counselors /social workers) from 1960- 2013.

Observational studies:
Patients, relatives and professions observed in relevant contexts (interdisciplinary meetings, rehabilitative activities etc.) and in natural settings (hospitals, municipal rehabilitation institutions, private homes, etc.).

Interviews (focus group and individual):
Patients, relatives and professions are interviewed individually or in groups, whichever is considered most appropriate in the given context.

Quantitative registry studies:
Mapping of patients resources to investigate the characteristics of patients and treatment, including patients and relatives use of health and social services.

Validity of the studies

The validity of the scientific work in the Phlegethon network is optimized by continuously making all empirical and theoretical approaches an object for other Phlegethon researchers’ analysis and criticism. In other terms, triangulation by perspective shifts methodically (observation / interview / literature / document analysis), theoretically (field perspectives of professions, knowledge and organizational theories) and at research level (researchers from different academic backgrounds) is used as an approach. Experience has shown that there is good synergy and validation of the research process and results through the interdisciplinary work.