Fortolkning og mening

The debate on qualitative vs. quantitative methods tends to revolve around questions of validity vs. reading or contextual analysis. An interpretation of qualitative data cannot escape questions of validity and reliability. But quantitative data based on questionnaires also require reading. Both adherents and critics of questionnaire based research have not sufficiently taken into account essential similarities between the problems and potential inherent in data based on response to verbal or written questions, in an interview or a questionnaire. Dealing with occupational settings this means that the interpretation of the perceptions and actions of any individual must take social background seriously. People do not only deal with the demands of work as individuals, but also as members of social groups. The resources of a collective structure are one important factor influencing the outcome of work related demands and strain.