Workplace Bullying Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Workplace Bullying Research - Essay Example According to the website 'bullying at work' although bullying often lacks a focus, bullies are deeply prejudiced but at the same time sufficiently devious to not reveal their prejudices to the extent that they contravene laws on harassment and discrimination. The workplace bullying is defined as "a person is bullied or harassed when they feel repeatedly subject to negative acts in the workplace, acts against which the victim may find it difficult to defend themselves" Einarsen et al (1994) cited in Lewis et al (2005). The choice of the technique by which data is gathered depends upon the choice of the researcher and the requirements of the research or investigation. Although there is no particular data collection technique which can symbolized as ideal for every situation, there are a variety of data collection techniques that can be considered for being used. Data in social sciences are attained in either formal or informal settings and evolves verbal (oral and written) or non-verba l acts or responses. The combination of the two types of responses results in the four major forms of data collection. These being: observational methods; survey research; secondary data analysis; qualitative research, Punch (2005). Different methodologies like surveys, field observations, interviews are being used in Social research studies. Such studies are often conducted through a combination of data collection techniques to ensure a maximum validity of the data collected. The method selected depends on the resources available and the nature of the phenomenon under investigation. However, there had never been a consensus on the best technique or method that can be termed as scientific. Malcolm (1996) In this respect, the motive behind the concern with the attempt to identify the scientific method is that as Malcolm points out "most philosophers of science have argued that method used is the only guarantee that knowledge obtained is valid, reliable and thus scientific. By employing the correct method[s], the scientist may be sure that their findings are true, repeatable and generalisable." Social research is defined by Malcolm (1996) as "the process of investigation that defines something as being research, rather than being driven by more abstract concerns." While he describes research as a "methodical investigations into a subject or problem. To research is to seek answers that involve understanding and explanation, whereas the credibility of its outcomes will rest heavily upon the conduct of the investigation." In this respect, Frazer (1995) argues that "careful research delivers valuable findings." 3.0 Research Methodology: Hammersley (2006) highlights two areas where philosophy can make an important contribution to social science. These areas are methodology and value relevance. Methodology is concerned with clarifying both the aims and means of research. While value relevance is related to values that frame social science inquiries so as to make them relevant to human concerns. In terms of methodology, Hammersly draws a basic distinction between methodology as technique and methodology as philosophy. Methodology as a technique, on one hand, portrays research as the deployment of particular methods and procedures, those that are taken to be scientific. On the other hand, methodology as a