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Qualitative research on family businesses: The relevance and usefulness of the interpretive approach

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 February 2015

Mattias Nordqvist ,
Annika Hall  and
Leif Melin
Mattias Nordqvist
Affiliation:
Center for Family Enterprise and Ownership, Jönköping International Business School, Jönköping, Sweden
Annika Hall
Affiliation:
Center for Family Enterprise and Ownership, Jönköping International Business School, Jönköping, Sweden
Leif Melin
Affiliation:
Center for Family Enterprise and Ownership, Jönköping International Business School, Jönköping, Sweden
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Abstract

Family business research has grown over the last decade and there are increasing requests for deeper insights into the nature and workings of these organizations. Currently, family business research is dominated by quantitative research methods. In this article, we argue that these studies should be complemented by a research approach that is more apt to capture the specific complexity and dynamics unique to family businesses. We suggest that the interpretive approach within the broader umbrella of qualitative methods has this potential. The article discusses issues, choices, requirements and implications for family business scholars engaged in interpretive research. We also offer suggestions for how editors and reviewers can assess interpretative research.

Keywords

family firmsresearch methodsinterpretive researchcase study research
Type
Research Article
Information
Journal of Management & Organization , Volume 15 , Issue 3 , July 2009 , pp. 294 - 308
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press and Australian and New Zealand Academy of Management 2009

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