Qualitative Methods

·         Test the effectiveness of oral history interviewing in a clinical setting by its inclusion in a treatment program for veterans with prostate cancer

·         Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer in males, treatment can include surgery or radiation therapy

·         Since 1930 oral history has been seen primarily as a method of documentation and historical inquiry

·         Some studies see a possible link between recounting one’s life history and reduced depression

·         Interviews of 60 minute sessions with an interviewer trained in oral history methodology and practice.

·         Focusing on patient’s life, military service, and illness. Screened for post traumatic stress disorder and have access to a psychologist

·         Had a good turn out from the feedback of the surveys – unusual because most don’t return surveys

·         Most assume veterans don’t want to talk about their experiences with war- could be a possibility because they are never asked

·         The argument that oral history is good for you is not new

·         Some studies see a possible link between recounting one’s life history and reducing depression

·         A research that relies less on interviews and observation, small numbers and questionnaires, focus group, subjective reports and case studies but much more focused on the collection and analysis of numerical data and statistics.