gms | German Medical Science

Background: The Gadamerian-based research method [1] provides both opportunities and perspectives in the field of qualitative midwifery research because individual issues and thus subjective perceptions and personal experiences can be scientifically evaluated and articulated. This allows an “understanding of various life worlds” and questions in the area of midwifery [2]. Many midwifery relevant issues require individual consideration and thus a qualitative approach, because a number of factors act on them in different ways. Few of the issues are explored as yet, so the discussion of qualitative research methods is an important development in midwifery research. Considering the Gadamerian-based research method [1], work in the field of nursing research shows that the generation of new knowledge is possible [3], [4].

Method: The Gadamerian-based research method [1] is a qualitative research method in the field of philosophical hermeneutics. It was developed for nursing and midwifery research in order to gain a deeper understanding of complex issues and individual experiences and has a clear scientific comprehensive basis. Within this hermeneutic method, the “whole” as well as the “parts” are considered interdependently. The research method is a combination of a hermeneutic and an interpretative approach as five successive steps are performed which are based on Gadamer’s thoughts on the concept of history, language, fusion of horizons and interpretation [5]. These five steps include the development of a research question, the identification of the pre-understandings of the researcher, the understanding through dialogue with participants, the understanding through dialogue with text, and the establishment of trustworthiness [1], [2].

Recommendation: The Gadamerian-based research method [1] as a qualitative research method offers opportunities and perspectives for midwifery research because deep and detailed understanding can be gained. The research method has a close relation to midwifery practice because qualitative questions are broadly evaluated and thereby knowledge is gained regarding individual questions, subjective feelings, experiences and personal experiences.