A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What method did Stacy use to study families in Silicon Valley?

1. Surveys and questionnaires

2. Life history interviews

3. Focus groups

4. Observation and case studies

The correct answer is: Life history interviews

Stacy's use of life history interviews to study families in Silicon Valley is significant because this qualitative research method allows for in-depth exploration of individual experiences and narratives. Life history interviews enable researchers to gather rich, detailed accounts of participants' lives over time, providing insights into how personal and family dynamics evolve within a specific cultural context, such as the tech-driven environment of Silicon Valley. This method helps highlight the complexity of family structures and relationships, considering socio-economic factors and personal histories that shape them. Utilizing life history interviews can uncover the nuanced ways individuals interpret their experiences and influence their families, which is particularly relevant in a region characterized by rapid change and innovation. Other methods, while valuable, may not provide the same depth of personal reflection and understanding that life history interviews can facilitate, making this approach particularly fitting for Stacy's research focus.