Respond to two colleagues by providing feedback on their choice of population, sample, and sampling technique. How do their choices fit with the research question and research methodological approach?

Please use the Learning Resources and the NASW Code of Ethics to support your response (i.e., cite and reference).

1 SE-  

My research question is "Are veterans more likely to become homeless over non-veterans?" A population is the entire group that you want to draw conclusions about. A sample is the specific group that you will collect data from. The size of the sample is always less than the total size of the population. In research, a population doesn't always refer to people .The population in my study would be homeless individuals. My research includes a study on both homeless veterans and homeless non-veterans. My sample group would include veterans and non-veterans because we're working to determine if there are more homeless veterans or non-veterans that are homeless.

A cross-sectional analysis would help with obtaining the necessary data. Based on my study of the homeless population, this could be supplemented by an ethnographic study, which we closely observe the homeless and interact with them. One sure way to identify the homeless population is by observing those who are seen sleeping on the streets, in cars or just out in the open. 

2 SO- 

My research question is: What is the Impact of Domestic Violence on Young Males who are exposed to it Within Parental Relationships?

Population:

The population for this study comprises young males who have been exposed to domestic violence within parental relationships. These individuals should be in their adolescent or teenage years, typically between the ages of 12 and 18, and have experienced or witnessed domestic violence between their parents or caregivers.

Sample:

The sampling technique employed in this research would be purposive sampling. Since accessing a population that has been exposed to domestic violence within parental relationships can be challenging due to the sensitive nature of the topic, purposive sampling allows for the deliberate selection of participants who fit the specific criteria for the study. To identify potential participants, researchers may collaborate with local shelters, support groups, counseling centers, or social service agencies that cater to families experiencing domestic violence. Additionally, referrals from therapists, school counselors, and other professionals working with this population could also be valuable in identifying suitable participants.

Ethical and Cultural Considerations:

1. Informed Consent: Before involving any participants in the study, researchers must ensure that proper informed consent is obtained. This should include a clear explanation of the research objectives, procedures, potential risks, and benefits. Participants should also be informed about their rights, including the right to withdraw from the study at any time without consequences.
2. Confidentiality: Maintaining confidentiality is of utmost importance when studying a sensitive topic like domestic violence. Researchers must take necessary precautions to protect the identity of participants and ensure that their responses and personal information are kept confidential and not disclosed to unauthorized individuals.
3. Cultural Sensitivity: It is essential to acknowledge and respect cultural differences and nuances when conducting research on domestic violence. Different cultural norms, beliefs, and attitudes may influence how individuals perceive and respond to domestic violence. Researchers should be mindful of these cultural factors to avoid misinterpretations and ensure a nuanced understanding of the impact of domestic violence on young males within parental relationships.
4. Avoiding Harm: Researchers must be aware of the potential emotional distress or re-traumatization that participants may experience when discussing their exposure to domestic violence. Adequate support services and resources should be available to participants, and researchers should be prepared to provide referrals for counseling or other appropriate interventions if needed.

The best sampling technique for my research would be multi-phase sampling. Multi-phase sampling collects basic information from a large sample of units and then collects more detailed information for a subsample of these units. The most common form of multi-phase sampling is two-phase sampling (or double sampling), but three or more phases are also possible. Multi-phase sampling would be best because of my research on homeless would be broken down into two units of veterans and non-veterans that are homeless.

Homelessness would be considered an ethical issue. Homelessness harms people’s health and well-being,  homelessness harms the health system and health professionals; and, finally, homelessness is a result of inequitable policies, practices, and choices our society has made. The health effects of homelessness are grave, with higher incidence and severity of illness and injury among people experiencing homelessness.  VA is a beneficiary system: the government and people of the United States have made a moral commitment to care for the health needs of those who served in the military. In several cases, that moral commitment is not being carried out when it comes to out veterans.