I learned that my research interest (i.e. work motivation, engagement, leadership, burnout, workaholism) falls within the field of Organizational Psychology.
Is it possible to follow a positivist/deductive approach for a PhD-level research?
Knowing there's no right or wrong to do research, would love to hear your thoughts.
In my opinion beginning with the understanding of the conceptualisation of your area of research is good for example burnout, or work motivation. I think it is possible to proceed with deductive approach once you have understood the context and the underpinnings of the constructs you want to study.
Hi Bayan,
Your area of research, shall turn out to be very interesting, but what is important it your orientation and research question. A positivist approach is well accepted for a PhD level work. However, I would suggest not to fall for the approach and methodology in the initial stages of your research. A strong and vigorous, review of literature may help you and prove as a guiding light on your research endeavour. Try to find your specific area of interest within Org. Psy and then see what are the best practices. Then decide the approach. Also a word of caution - best practices may not always be the right practices for your research. Hence please start from narrowing doing to the specific research and then take off with an extensive review of literature which not only include the subject but also the approaches, you will find your answer. In all this do not forget your own world view as an individual i.e. your opinion on how the world operates, it shall prove instrumental in deciding your approach.
P.S. - Yours guide's view on this may be your bible.
All the best for your Journey
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