Interviewing in qualitative research: The one-to-one interview

TL;DR: In this article, the authors examine the process of conducting the interview from a generic point of view, while making reference to different approaches, and raise concerns regarding interviewing in challenging situations.

Abstract: Background The one-to-one interview is a commonly used data collection method in health and social research. Increasing attention has been given in the literature to the process of conducting an interview, particularly with respect to the role of the interviewer and the relationship between the interviewer and interviewee. The individual interview is a valuable method of gaining insight into people's perceptions, understandings and experiences of a given phenomenon and can contribute to in-depth data collection. However, the interview is more than a conversational interaction between two people and requires considerable knowledge and skill on behalf of the interviewer. Content Interviews vary in type and structure depending on their philosophical orientation. This article examines the process of conducting the interview from a generic point of view, while making reference to different approaches. Considerations are also raised regarding interviewing in challenging situations. Conclusions Several important...