Research Methods in Psychiatry: A beginner’s guide
Chris Freeman and Peter tyrer (eds)
The Royal College of Psychiatrists, London
1989, 240 pages
Not every doctor will become a dedicated researcher but an understanding of research principles and methods is essential for effective critical enquiry or performance review and thus for improved patient care. Like their psychiatrist colleagues, general practitioner trainees increasingly accept the link between individual research and better clinical practice. Chris Freeman and Peter lyrer have drawn on their experience of running research methodology courses to assemble a beginner’s guide which succeeds admirably in its aims. Though primarily intended for trainee psychiatrists, there is much that is common to research work in any scientific discipline and much that is of interest to general practitioners.
Besides the standard topics covered in the introduction, the authors give advice on ‘getting supervision’ and ‘keeping a research diary’ and counsel on ‘coping with failure and how to prevent it’. They amuse by examining the motivation for carrying out research and give a range of predicted success probabilities, from ‘keeping a critical attitude’ (P=0.75) to ‘fame, prestige and glory’ (P=0.0001). There is a useful checklist of the functions of a statistical coordinator but some duplication of advice on preparing a protocol. For general practitioners the three chapters on rating scales may seem overlong but many will be intrigued by the chapter on research with single (or few) patients.
This pocket-sized book is concise and readable with clear and sometimes humorous diagrams and illustrations lightening the reading load. There are extensive references, an extended reading list, a short but helpful glossary and a workmanlike index. Throughout, there is the reassuring feel of authors with ‘hands on’ experience of their subject which will ensure a favoured place on my bookshelf for this book.
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