Guilford Publications Inc. Qualitative research, that is non systematic impressions and conceptualization, can be a first step in generating hypotheses which can then be further explored with more systematic and quantified procedures. This book shows the dangers, however, when what is essentially a speculative and subjective process is labeled research and then used as a basis for proposing specific solutions to problems that may or may not exist. Ms. MacKinnon interviewed parts of 44 families. This is a sample of convenience and the interviews are subjective and without any format other than the prior assumptions and biases of the interviewer. The book makes it clear that the author has the bias of radical feminism that the root of all problems is the oppressive patriarchal society created by men for the purpose of subjugating and exploiting women and children. There is no suggestion of any scientific support for the efficacy or utility of the proposed treatment approaches. There is a passing referral to family therapy and what may be characterized as a systems approach, but nothing else. Other than affirmation of preexisting biases, the book has use only as an example of what can go awry when bias is cloaked as some kind of science. Reviewed by Ralph Underwager, Institute for Psychological Therapies.
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