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What Is a Case Study?

Weighing the pros and cons of this method of research

Verywell / Colleen Tighe

Pros and Cons

What Types of Case Studies Are Out There?

Where do you find data for a case study, how do i write a psychology case study.

A case study is an in-depth study of one person, group, or event. In a case study, nearly every aspect of the subject's life and history is analyzed to seek patterns and causes of behavior. Case studies can be used in many different fields, including psychology, medicine, education, anthropology, political science, and social work.

The point of a case study is to learn as much as possible about an individual or group so that the information can be generalized to many others. Unfortunately, case studies tend to be highly subjective, and it is sometimes difficult to generalize results to a larger population.

While case studies focus on a single individual or group, they follow a format similar to other types of psychology writing. If you are writing a case study, we got you—here are some rules of APA format to reference.

At a Glance

A case study, or an in-depth study of a person, group, or event, can be a useful research tool when used wisely. In many cases, case studies are best used in situations where it would be difficult or impossible for you to conduct an experiment. They are helpful for looking at unique situations and allow researchers to gather a lot of˜ information about a specific individual or group of people. However, it's important to be cautious of any bias we draw from them as they are highly subjective.

What Are the Benefits and Limitations of Case Studies?

A case study can have its strengths and weaknesses. Researchers must consider these pros and cons before deciding if this type of study is appropriate for their needs.

One of the greatest advantages of a case study is that it allows researchers to investigate things that are often difficult or impossible to replicate in a lab. Some other benefits of a case study:

Allows researchers to capture information on the 'how,' 'what,' and 'why,' of something that's implemented
Gives researchers the chance to collect information on why one strategy might be chosen over another
Permits researchers to develop hypotheses that can be explored in experimental research

On the other hand, a case study can have some drawbacks:

It cannot necessarily be generalized to the larger population
Cannot demonstrate cause and effect
It may not be scientifically rigorous
It can lead to bias

Researchers may choose to perform a case study if they want to explore a unique or recently discovered phenomenon. Through their insights, researchers develop additional ideas and study questions that might be explored in future studies.

It's important to remember that the insights from case studies cannot be used to determine cause-and-effect relationships between variables. However, case studies may be used to develop hypotheses that can then be addressed in experimental research.

Case Study Examples

There have been a number of notable case studies in the history of psychology. Much of Freud's work and theories were developed through individual case studies. Some great examples of case studies in psychology include:

Anna O : Anna O. was a pseudonym of a woman named Bertha Pappenheim, a patient of a physician named Josef Breuer. While she was never a patient of Freud's, Freud and Breuer discussed her case extensively. The woman was experiencing symptoms of a condition that was then known as hysteria and found that talking about her problems helped relieve her symptoms. Her case played an important part in the development of talk therapy as an approach to mental health treatment.
Phineas Gage : Phineas Gage was a railroad employee who experienced a terrible accident in which an explosion sent a metal rod through his skull, damaging important portions of his brain. Gage recovered from his accident but was left with serious changes in both personality and behavior.
Genie : Genie was a young girl subjected to horrific abuse and isolation. The case study of Genie allowed researchers to study whether language learning was possible, even after missing critical periods for language development. Her case also served as an example of how scientific research may interfere with treatment and lead to further abuse of vulnerable individuals.

Such cases demonstrate how case research can be used to study things that researchers could not replicate in experimental settings. In Genie's case, her horrific abuse denied her the opportunity to learn a language at critical points in her development.

This is clearly not something researchers could ethically replicate, but conducting a case study on Genie allowed researchers to study phenomena that are otherwise impossible to reproduce.

There are a few different types of case studies that psychologists and other researchers might use:

Collective case studies : These involve studying a group of individuals. Researchers might study a group of people in a certain setting or look at an entire community. For example, psychologists might explore how access to resources in a community has affected the collective mental well-being of those who live there.
Descriptive case studies : These involve starting with a descriptive theory. The subjects are then observed, and the information gathered is compared to the pre-existing theory.
Explanatory case studies : These are often used to do causal investigations. In other words, researchers are interested in looking at factors that may have caused certain things to occur.
Exploratory case studies : These are sometimes used as a prelude to further, more in-depth research. This allows researchers to gather more information before developing their research questions and hypotheses .
Instrumental case studies : These occur when the individual or group allows researchers to understand more than what is initially obvious to observers.
Intrinsic case studies : This type of case study is when the researcher has a personal interest in the case. Jean Piaget's observations of his own children are good examples of how an intrinsic case study can contribute to the development of a psychological theory.

The three main case study types often used are intrinsic, instrumental, and collective. Intrinsic case studies are useful for learning about unique cases. Instrumental case studies help look at an individual to learn more about a broader issue. A collective case study can be useful for looking at several cases simultaneously.

The type of case study that psychology researchers use depends on the unique characteristics of the situation and the case itself.

There are a number of different sources and methods that researchers can use to gather information about an individual or group. Six major sources that have been identified by researchers are:

Archival records : Census records, survey records, and name lists are examples of archival records.
Direct observation : This strategy involves observing the subject, often in a natural setting . While an individual observer is sometimes used, it is more common to utilize a group of observers.
Documents : Letters, newspaper articles, administrative records, etc., are the types of documents often used as sources.
Interviews : Interviews are one of the most important methods for gathering information in case studies. An interview can involve structured survey questions or more open-ended questions.
Participant observation : When the researcher serves as a participant in events and observes the actions and outcomes, it is called participant observation.
Physical artifacts : Tools, objects, instruments, and other artifacts are often observed during a direct observation of the subject.

If you have been directed to write a case study for a psychology course, be sure to check with your instructor for any specific guidelines you need to follow. If you are writing your case study for a professional publication, check with the publisher for their specific guidelines for submitting a case study.

Here is a general outline of what should be included in a case study.

Section 1: A Case History

This section will have the following structure and content:

Background information : The first section of your paper will present your client's background. Include factors such as age, gender, work, health status, family mental health history, family and social relationships, drug and alcohol history, life difficulties, goals, and coping skills and weaknesses.

Description of the presenting problem : In the next section of your case study, you will describe the problem or symptoms that the client presented with.

Describe any physical, emotional, or sensory symptoms reported by the client. Thoughts, feelings, and perceptions related to the symptoms should also be noted. Any screening or diagnostic assessments that are used should also be described in detail and all scores reported.

Your diagnosis : Provide your diagnosis and give the appropriate Diagnostic and Statistical Manual code. Explain how you reached your diagnosis, how the client's symptoms fit the diagnostic criteria for the disorder(s), or any possible difficulties in reaching a diagnosis.

Section 2: Treatment Plan

This portion of the paper will address the chosen treatment for the condition. This might also include the theoretical basis for the chosen treatment or any other evidence that might exist to support why this approach was chosen.

Cognitive behavioral approach : Explain how a cognitive behavioral therapist would approach treatment. Offer background information on cognitive behavioral therapy and describe the treatment sessions, client response, and outcome of this type of treatment. Make note of any difficulties or successes encountered by your client during treatment.
Humanistic approach : Describe a humanistic approach that could be used to treat your client, such as client-centered therapy . Provide information on the type of treatment you chose, the client's reaction to the treatment, and the end result of this approach. Explain why the treatment was successful or unsuccessful.
Psychoanalytic approach : Describe how a psychoanalytic therapist would view the client's problem. Provide some background on the psychoanalytic approach and cite relevant references. Explain how psychoanalytic therapy would be used to treat the client, how the client would respond to therapy, and the effectiveness of this treatment approach.
Pharmacological approach : If treatment primarily involves the use of medications, explain which medications were used and why. Provide background on the effectiveness of these medications and how monotherapy may compare with an approach that combines medications with therapy or other treatments.

This section of a case study should also include information about the treatment goals, process, and outcomes.

When you are writing a case study, you should also include a section where you discuss the case study itself, including the strengths and limitiations of the study. You should note how the findings of your case study might support previous research.

In your discussion section, you should also describe some of the implications of your case study. What ideas or findings might require further exploration? How might researchers go about exploring some of these questions in additional studies?

Need More Tips?

Here are a few additional pointers to keep in mind when formatting your case study:

Never refer to the subject of your case study as "the client." Instead, use their name or a pseudonym.
Read examples of case studies to gain an idea about the style and format.
Remember to use APA format when citing references .

Crowe S, Cresswell K, Robertson A, Huby G, Avery A, Sheikh A. The case study approach . BMC Med Res Methodol . 2011;11:100.

Crowe S, Cresswell K, Robertson A, Huby G, Avery A, Sheikh A. The case study approach . BMC Med Res Methodol . 2011 Jun 27;11:100. doi:10.1186/1471-2288-11-100

Gagnon, Yves-Chantal. The Case Study as Research Method: A Practical Handbook . Canada, Chicago Review Press Incorporated DBA Independent Pub Group, 2010.

Yin, Robert K. Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods . United States, SAGE Publications, 2017.

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Psychology Case Study Examples: A Deep Dive into Real-life Scenarios

Peeling back the layers of the human mind is no easy task, but psychology case studies can help us do just that. Through these detailed analyses, we’re able to gain a deeper understanding of human behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. I’ve always found it fascinating how a single person’s experience can shed light on broader psychological principles.

Over the years, psychologists have conducted numerous case studies—each with their own unique insights and implications. These investigations range from Phineas Gage’s accidental lobotomy to Genie Wiley’s tragic tale of isolation. Such examples not only enlighten us about specific disorders or occurrences but also continue to shape our overall understanding of psychology .

As we delve into some noteworthy examples , I assure you’ll appreciate how varied and intricate the field of psychology truly is. Whether you’re a budding psychologist or simply an eager learner, brace yourself for an intriguing exploration into the intricacies of the human psyche.

Understanding Psychology Case Studies

Diving headfirst into the world of psychology, it’s easy to come upon a valuable tool used by psychologists and researchers alike – case studies. I’m here to shed some light on these fascinating tools.

Psychology case studies, for those unfamiliar with them, are in-depth investigations carried out to gain a profound understanding of the subject – whether it’s an individual, group or phenomenon. They’re powerful because they provide detailed insights that other research methods might miss.

Let me share a few examples to clarify this concept further:

One notable example is Freud’s study on Little Hans. This case study explored a 5-year-old boy’s fear of horses and related it back to Freud’s theories about psychosexual stages.
Another classic example is Genie Wiley (a pseudonym), a feral child who was subjected to severe social isolation during her early years. Her heartbreaking story provided invaluable insights into language acquisition and critical periods in development.

You see, what sets psychology case studies apart is their focus on the ‘why’ and ‘how’. While surveys or experiments might tell us ‘what’, they often don’t dig deep enough into the inner workings behind human behavior.

It’s important though not to take these psychology case studies at face value. As enlightening as they can be, we must remember that they usually focus on one specific instance or individual. Thus, generalizing findings from single-case studies should be done cautiously.

To illustrate my point using numbers: let’s say we have 1 million people suffering from condition X worldwide; if only 20 unique cases have been studied so far (which would be quite typical for rare conditions), then our understanding is based on just 0.002% of the total cases! That’s why multiple sources and types of research are vital when trying to understand complex psychological phenomena fully.

Number of People with Condition X	Number Of Unique Cases Studied	Percentage
1,000,000	20	0.002%

In the grand scheme of things, psychology case studies are just one piece of the puzzle – albeit an essential one. They provide rich, detailed data that can form the foundation for further research and understanding. As we delve deeper into this fascinating field, it’s crucial to appreciate all the tools at our disposal – from surveys and experiments to these insightful case studies.

Importance of Case Studies in Psychology

I’ve always been fascinated by the human mind, and if you’re here, I bet you are too. Let’s dive right into why case studies play such a pivotal role in psychology.

One of the key reasons they matter so much is because they provide detailed insights into specific psychological phenomena. Unlike other research methods that might use large samples but only offer surface-level findings, case studies allow us to study complex behaviors, disorders, and even treatments at an intimate level. They often serve as a catalyst for new theories or help refine existing ones.

To illustrate this point, let’s look at one of psychology’s most famous case studies – Phineas Gage. He was a railroad construction foreman who survived a severe brain injury when an iron rod shot through his skull during an explosion in 1848. The dramatic personality changes he experienced after his accident led to significant advancements in our understanding of the brain’s role in personality and behavior.

Moreover, it’s worth noting that some rare conditions can only be studied through individual cases due to their uncommon nature. For instance, consider Genie Wiley – a girl discovered at age 13 having spent most of her life locked away from society by her parents. Her tragic story gave psychologists valuable insights into language acquisition and critical periods for learning.

Finally yet importantly, case studies also have practical applications for clinicians and therapists. Studying real-life examples can inform treatment plans and provide guidance on how theoretical concepts might apply to actual client situations.

Detailed insights: Case studies offer comprehensive views on specific psychological phenomena.
Catalyst for new theories: Real-life scenarios help shape our understanding of psychology .
Study rare conditions: Unique cases can offer invaluable lessons about uncommon disorders.
Practical applications: Clinicians benefit from studying real-world examples.

In short (but without wrapping up), it’s clear that case studies hold immense value within psychology – they illuminate what textbooks often can’t, offering a more nuanced understanding of human behavior.

Different Types of Psychology Case Studies

Diving headfirst into the world of psychology, I can’t help but be fascinated by the myriad types of case studies that revolve around this subject. Let’s take a closer look at some of them.

Firstly, we’ve got what’s known as ‘Explanatory Case Studies’. These are often used when a researcher wants to clarify complex phenomena or concepts. For example, a psychologist might use an explanatory case study to explore the reasons behind aggressive behavior in children.

Second on our list are ‘Exploratory Case Studies’, typically utilized when new and unexplored areas of research come up. They’re like pioneers; they pave the way for future studies. In psychological terms, exploratory case studies could be conducted to investigate emerging mental health conditions or under-researched therapeutic approaches.

Next up are ‘Descriptive Case Studies’. As the name suggests, these focus on depicting comprehensive and detailed profiles about a particular individual, group, or event within its natural context. A well-known example would be Sigmund Freud’s analysis of “Anna O”, which provided unique insights into hysteria.

Then there are ‘Intrinsic Case Studies’, which delve deep into one specific case because it is intrinsically interesting or unique in some way. It’s sorta like shining a spotlight onto an exceptional phenomenon. An instance would be studying savants—individuals with extraordinary abilities despite significant mental disabilities.

Lastly, we have ‘Instrumental Case Studies’. These aren’t focused on understanding a particular case per se but use it as an instrument to understand something else altogether—a bit like using one puzzle piece to make sense of the whole picture!

So there you have it! From explanatory to instrumental, each type serves its own unique purpose and adds another intriguing layer to our understanding of human behavior and cognition.

Exploring Real-Life Psychology Case Study Examples

Let’s roll up our sleeves and delve into some real-life psychology case study examples. By digging deep, we can glean valuable insights from these studies that have significantly contributed to our understanding of human behavior and mental processes.

First off, let me share the fascinating case of Phineas Gage. This gentleman was a 19th-century railroad construction foreman who survived an accident where a large iron rod was accidentally driven through his skull, damaging his frontal lobes. Astonishingly, he could walk and talk immediately after the accident but underwent dramatic personality changes, becoming impulsive and irresponsible. This case is often referenced in discussions about brain injury and personality change.

Next on my list is Genie Wiley’s heart-wrenching story. She was a victim of severe abuse and neglect resulting in her being socially isolated until she was 13 years old. Due to this horrific experience, Genie couldn’t acquire language skills typically as other children would do during their developmental stages. Her tragic story offers invaluable insight into the critical periods for language development in children.

Then there’s ‘Little Hans’, a classic Freudian case that delves into child psychology. At just five years old, Little Hans developed an irrational fear of horses -or so it seemed- which Sigmund Freud interpreted as symbolic anxiety stemming from suppressed sexual desires towards his mother—quite an interpretation! The study gave us Freud’s Oedipus Complex theory.

Lastly, I’d like to mention Patient H.M., an individual who became amnesiac following surgery to control seizures by removing parts of his hippocampus bilaterally. His inability to form new memories post-operation shed light on how different areas of our brains contribute to memory formation.

Each one of these real-life psychology case studies gives us a unique window into understanding complex human behaviors better – whether it’s dissecting the role our brain plays in shaping personality or unraveling the mysteries of fear, language acquisition, and memory.

How to Analyze a Psychology Case Study

Diving headfirst into a psychology case study, I understand it can seem like an intimidating task. But don’t worry, I’m here to guide you through the process.

First off, it’s essential to go through the case study thoroughly. Read it multiple times if needed. Each reading will likely reveal new information or perspectives you may have missed initially. Look out for any patterns or inconsistencies in the subject’s behavior and make note of them.

Next on your agenda should be understanding the theoretical frameworks that might be applicable in this scenario. Is there a cognitive-behavioral approach at play? Or does psychoanalysis provide better insights? Comparing these theories with observed behavior and symptoms can help shed light on underlying psychological issues.

Now, let’s talk data interpretation. If your case study includes raw data like surveys or diagnostic tests results, you’ll need to analyze them carefully. Here are some steps that could help:

Identify what each piece of data represents
Look for correlations between different pieces of data
Compute statistics (mean, median, mode) if necessary
Use graphs or charts for visual representation

Keep in mind; interpreting raw data requires both statistical knowledge and intuition about human behavior.

Finally, drafting conclusions is key in analyzing a psychology case study. Based on your observations, evaluations of theoretical approaches and interpretations of any given data – what do you conclude about the subject’s mental health status? Remember not to jump to conclusions hastily but instead base them solidly on evidence from your analysis.

In all this journey of analysis remember one thing: every person is unique and so are their experiences! So while theories and previous studies guide us, they never define an individual completely.

Applying Lessons from Psychology Case Studies

Let’s dive into how we can apply the lessons learned from psychology case studies. If you’ve ever studied psychology, you’ll know that case studies offer rich insights. They shed light on human behavior, mental health issues, and therapeutic techniques. But it’s not just about understanding theory. It’s also about implementing these valuable lessons in real-world situations.

One of the most famous psychological case studies is Phineas Gage’s story. This 19th-century railroad worker survived a severe brain injury which dramatically altered his personality. From this study, we gained crucial insight into how different brain areas are responsible for various aspects of our personality and behavior.

Lesson: Recognizing that damage to specific brain areas can result in personality changes, enabling us to better understand certain mental conditions.

Sigmund Freud’s work with a patient known as ‘Anna O.’ is another landmark psychology case study. Anna displayed what was then called hysteria – symptoms included hallucinations and disturbances in speech and physical coordination – which Freud linked back to repressed memories of traumatic events.

Lesson: The importance of exploring an individual’s history for understanding their current psychological problems – a principle at the heart of psychoanalysis.

Then there’s Genie Wiley’s case – a girl who suffered extreme neglect resulting in impaired social and linguistic development. Researchers used her tragic circumstances as an opportunity to explore theories around language acquisition and socialization.

Lesson: Reinforcing the critical role early childhood experiences play in shaping cognitive development.

Lastly, let’s consider the Stanford Prison Experiment led by Philip Zimbardo examining how people conform to societal roles even when they lead to immoral actions.

Lesson: Highlighting that situational forces can drastically impact human behavior beyond personal characteristics or morality.

These examples demonstrate that psychology case studies aren’t just academic exercises isolated from daily life. Instead, they provide profound lessons that help us make sense of complex human behaviors, mental health issues, and therapeutic strategies. By understanding these studies, we’re better equipped to apply their lessons in our own lives – whether it’s navigating personal relationships, working with diverse teams at work or even self-improvement.

Challenges and Critiques of Psychological Case Studies

Delving into the world of psychological case studies, it’s not all rosy. Sure, they offer an in-depth understanding of individual behavior and mental processes. Yet, they’re not without their share of challenges and criticisms.

One common critique is the lack of generalizability. Each case study is unique to its subject. We can’t always apply what we learn from one person to everyone else. I’ve come across instances where results varied dramatically between similar subjects, highlighting the inherent unpredictability in human behavior.

Another challenge lies within ethical boundaries. Often, sensitive information surfaces during these studies that could potentially harm the subject if disclosed improperly. To put it plainly, maintaining confidentiality while delivering a comprehensive account isn’t always easy.

Distortion due to subjective interpretations also poses substantial difficulties for psychologists conducting case studies. The researcher’s own bias may color their observations and conclusions – leading to skewed outcomes or misleading findings.

Moreover, there’s an ongoing debate about the scientific validity of case studies because they rely heavily on qualitative data rather than quantitative analysis. Some argue this makes them less reliable or objective when compared with other research methods such as experiments or surveys.

To summarize:

Lack of generalizability
Ethical dilemmas concerning privacy
Potential distortion through subjective interpretation
Questions about scientific validity

While these critiques present significant challenges, they do not diminish the value that psychological case studies bring to our understanding of human behavior and mental health struggles.

Conclusion: The Impact of Case Studies in Understanding Human Behavior

Case studies play a pivotal role in shedding light on human behavior. Throughout this article, I’ve discussed numerous examples that illustrate just how powerful these studies can be. Yet it’s the impact they have on our understanding of human psychology where their true value lies.

Take for instance the iconic study of Phineas Gage. It was through his tragic accident and subsequent personality change that we began to grasp the profound influence our frontal lobes have on our behavior. Without such a case study, we might still be in the dark about this crucial aspect of our neurology.

Let’s also consider Genie, the feral child who showed us the critical importance of social interaction during early development. Her heartbreaking story underscores just how vital appropriate nurturing is for healthy mental and emotional growth.

Here are some key takeaways from these case studies:

Our brain structure significantly influences our behavior.
Social interaction during formative years is vital for normal psychological development.
Studying individual cases can reveal universal truths about human nature.

What stands out though, is not merely what these case studies teach us individually but collectively. They remind us that each person constitutes a unique combination of various factors—biological, psychological, and environmental—that shape their behavior.

One cannot overstate the significance of case studies in psychology—they are more than mere stories or isolated incidents; they’re windows into the complexities and nuances of human nature itself.

In wrapping up, I’d say that while statistics give us patterns and trends to understand groups, it’s these detailed narratives offered by case studies that help us comprehend individuals’ unique experiences within those groups—making them an invaluable part of psychological research.

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Case Study Research Method in Psychology

Saul McLeod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul McLeod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Learn about our Editorial Process

Olivia Guy-Evans, MSc

Associate Editor for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

On This Page:

Case studies are in-depth investigations of a person, group, event, or community. Typically, data is gathered from various sources using several methods (e.g., observations & interviews).

The case study research method originated in clinical medicine (the case history, i.e., the patient’s personal history). In psychology, case studies are often confined to the study of a particular individual.

The information is mainly biographical and relates to events in the individual’s past (i.e., retrospective), as well as to significant events that are currently occurring in his or her everyday life.

The case study is not a research method, but researchers select methods of data collection and analysis that will generate material suitable for case studies.

Freud (1909a, 1909b) conducted very detailed investigations into the private lives of his patients in an attempt to both understand and help them overcome their illnesses.

This makes it clear that the case study is a method that should only be used by a psychologist, therapist, or psychiatrist, i.e., someone with a professional qualification.

There is an ethical issue of competence. Only someone qualified to diagnose and treat a person can conduct a formal case study relating to atypical (i.e., abnormal) behavior or atypical development.

Famous Case Studies

Anna O – One of the most famous case studies, documenting psychoanalyst Josef Breuer’s treatment of “Anna O” (real name Bertha Pappenheim) for hysteria in the late 1800s using early psychoanalytic theory.
Little Hans – A child psychoanalysis case study published by Sigmund Freud in 1909 analyzing his five-year-old patient Herbert Graf’s house phobia as related to the Oedipus complex.
Bruce/Brenda – Gender identity case of the boy (Bruce) whose botched circumcision led psychologist John Money to advise gender reassignment and raise him as a girl (Brenda) in the 1960s.
Genie Wiley – Linguistics/psychological development case of the victim of extreme isolation abuse who was studied in 1970s California for effects of early language deprivation on acquiring speech later in life.
Phineas Gage – One of the most famous neuropsychology case studies analyzes personality changes in railroad worker Phineas Gage after an 1848 brain injury involving a tamping iron piercing his skull.

Clinical Case Studies

Studying the effectiveness of psychotherapy approaches with an individual patient
Assessing and treating mental illnesses like depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD
Neuropsychological cases investigating brain injuries or disorders

Child Psychology Case Studies

Studying psychological development from birth through adolescence
Cases of learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD
Effects of trauma, abuse, deprivation on development

Types of Case Studies

Explanatory case studies : Used to explore causation in order to find underlying principles. Helpful for doing qualitative analysis to explain presumed causal links.
Exploratory case studies : Used to explore situations where an intervention being evaluated has no clear set of outcomes. It helps define questions and hypotheses for future research.
Descriptive case studies : Describe an intervention or phenomenon and the real-life context in which it occurred. It is helpful for illustrating certain topics within an evaluation.
Multiple-case studies : Used to explore differences between cases and replicate findings across cases. Helpful for comparing and contrasting specific cases.
Intrinsic : Used to gain a better understanding of a particular case. Helpful for capturing the complexity of a single case.
Collective : Used to explore a general phenomenon using multiple case studies. Helpful for jointly studying a group of cases in order to inquire into the phenomenon.

Where Do You Find Data for a Case Study?

There are several places to find data for a case study. The key is to gather data from multiple sources to get a complete picture of the case and corroborate facts or findings through triangulation of evidence. Most of this information is likely qualitative (i.e., verbal description rather than measurement), but the psychologist might also collect numerical data.

1. Primary sources

Interviews – Interviewing key people related to the case to get their perspectives and insights. The interview is an extremely effective procedure for obtaining information about an individual, and it may be used to collect comments from the person’s friends, parents, employer, workmates, and others who have a good knowledge of the person, as well as to obtain facts from the person him or herself.
Observations – Observing behaviors, interactions, processes, etc., related to the case as they unfold in real-time.
Documents & Records – Reviewing private documents, diaries, public records, correspondence, meeting minutes, etc., relevant to the case.

2. Secondary sources

News/Media – News coverage of events related to the case study.
Academic articles – Journal articles, dissertations etc. that discuss the case.
Government reports – Official data and records related to the case context.
Books/films – Books, documentaries or films discussing the case.

3. Archival records

Searching historical archives, museum collections and databases to find relevant documents, visual/audio records related to the case history and context.

Public archives like newspapers, organizational records, photographic collections could all include potentially relevant pieces of information to shed light on attitudes, cultural perspectives, common practices and historical contexts related to psychology.

4. Organizational records

Organizational records offer the advantage of often having large datasets collected over time that can reveal or confirm psychological insights.

Of course, privacy and ethical concerns regarding confidential data must be navigated carefully.

However, with proper protocols, organizational records can provide invaluable context and empirical depth to qualitative case studies exploring the intersection of psychology and organizations.

Organizational/industrial psychology research : Organizational records like employee surveys, turnover/retention data, policies, incident reports etc. may provide insight into topics like job satisfaction, workplace culture and dynamics, leadership issues, employee behaviors etc.
Clinical psychology : Therapists/hospitals may grant access to anonymized medical records to study aspects like assessments, diagnoses, treatment plans etc. This could shed light on clinical practices.
School psychology : Studies could utilize anonymized student records like test scores, grades, disciplinary issues, and counseling referrals to study child development, learning barriers, effectiveness of support programs, and more.

How do I Write a Case Study in Psychology?

Follow specified case study guidelines provided by a journal or your psychology tutor. General components of clinical case studies include: background, symptoms, assessments, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. Interpreting the information means the researcher decides what to include or leave out. A good case study should always clarify which information is the factual description and which is an inference or the researcher’s opinion.

1. Introduction

Provide background on the case context and why it is of interest, presenting background information like demographics, relevant history, and presenting problem.
Compare briefly to similar published cases if applicable. Clearly state the focus/importance of the case.

2. Case Presentation

Describe the presenting problem in detail, including symptoms, duration,and impact on daily life.
Include client demographics like age and gender, information about social relationships, and mental health history.
Describe all physical, emotional, and/or sensory symptoms reported by the client.
Use patient quotes to describe the initial complaint verbatim. Follow with full-sentence summaries of relevant history details gathered, including key components that led to a working diagnosis.
Summarize clinical exam results, namely orthopedic/neurological tests, imaging, lab tests, etc. Note actual results rather than subjective conclusions. Provide images if clearly reproducible/anonymized.
Clearly state the working diagnosis or clinical impression before transitioning to management.

3. Management and Outcome

Indicate the total duration of care and number of treatments given over what timeframe. Use specific names/descriptions for any therapies/interventions applied.
Present the results of the intervention,including any quantitative or qualitative data collected.
For outcomes, utilize visual analog scales for pain, medication usage logs, etc., if possible. Include patient self-reports of improvement/worsening of symptoms. Note the reason for discharge/end of care.

4. Discussion

Analyze the case, exploring contributing factors, limitations of the study, and connections to existing research.
Analyze the effectiveness of the intervention,considering factors like participant adherence, limitations of the study, and potential alternative explanations for the results.
Identify any questions raised in the case analysis and relate insights to established theories and current research if applicable. Avoid definitive claims about physiological explanations.
Offer clinical implications, and suggest future research directions.

5. Additional Items

Thank specific assistants for writing support only. No patient acknowledgments.
References should directly support any key claims or quotes included.
Use tables/figures/images only if substantially informative. Include permissions and legends/explanatory notes.
Provides detailed (rich qualitative) information.
Provides insight for further research.
Permitting investigation of otherwise impractical (or unethical) situations.

Case studies allow a researcher to investigate a topic in far more detail than might be possible if they were trying to deal with a large number of research participants (nomothetic approach) with the aim of ‘averaging’.

Because of their in-depth, multi-sided approach, case studies often shed light on aspects of human thinking and behavior that would be unethical or impractical to study in other ways.

Research that only looks into the measurable aspects of human behavior is not likely to give us insights into the subjective dimension of experience, which is important to psychoanalytic and humanistic psychologists.

Case studies are often used in exploratory research. They can help us generate new ideas (that might be tested by other methods). They are an important way of illustrating theories and can help show how different aspects of a person’s life are related to each other.

The method is, therefore, important for psychologists who adopt a holistic point of view (i.e., humanistic psychologists ).

Limitations

Lacking scientific rigor and providing little basis for generalization of results to the wider population.
Researchers’ own subjective feelings may influence the case study (researcher bias).
Difficult to replicate.
Time-consuming and expensive.
The volume of data, together with the time restrictions in place, impacted the depth of analysis that was possible within the available resources.

Because a case study deals with only one person/event/group, we can never be sure if the case study investigated is representative of the wider body of “similar” instances. This means the conclusions drawn from a particular case may not be transferable to other settings.

Because case studies are based on the analysis of qualitative (i.e., descriptive) data , a lot depends on the psychologist’s interpretation of the information she has acquired.

This means that there is a lot of scope for Anna O , and it could be that the subjective opinions of the psychologist intrude in the assessment of what the data means.

For example, Freud has been criticized for producing case studies in which the information was sometimes distorted to fit particular behavioral theories (e.g., Little Hans ).

This is also true of Money’s interpretation of the Bruce/Brenda case study (Diamond, 1997) when he ignored evidence that went against his theory.

Breuer, J., & Freud, S. (1895). Studies on hysteria . Standard Edition 2: London.

Curtiss, S. (1981). Genie: The case of a modern wild child .

Diamond, M., & Sigmundson, K. (1997). Sex Reassignment at Birth: Long-term Review and Clinical Implications. Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine , 151(3), 298-304

Freud, S. (1909a). Analysis of a phobia of a five year old boy. In The Pelican Freud Library (1977), Vol 8, Case Histories 1, pages 169-306

Freud, S. (1909b). Bemerkungen über einen Fall von Zwangsneurose (Der “Rattenmann”). Jb. psychoanal. psychopathol. Forsch ., I, p. 357-421; GW, VII, p. 379-463; Notes upon a case of obsessional neurosis, SE , 10: 151-318.

Harlow J. M. (1848). Passage of an iron rod through the head. Boston Medical and Surgical Journal, 39 , 389–393.

Harlow, J. M. (1868). Recovery from the Passage of an Iron Bar through the Head . Publications of the Massachusetts Medical Society. 2 (3), 327-347.

Money, J., & Ehrhardt, A. A. (1972). Man & Woman, Boy & Girl : The Differentiation and Dimorphism of Gender Identity from Conception to Maturity. Baltimore, Maryland: Johns Hopkins University Press.

Money, J., & Tucker, P. (1975). Sexual signatures: On being a man or a woman.

Further Information

Case Study Approach
Case Study Method
Enhancing the Quality of Case Studies in Health Services Research
“We do things together” A case study of “couplehood” in dementia
Using mixed methods for evaluating an integrative approach to cancer care: a case study

How to Write a Case Conceptualization: 10 Examples (+ PDF)

Such understanding can be developed by reading relevant records, meeting with clients face to face, and using assessments such as a mental status examination.

As you proceed, you are forming a guiding concept of who this client is, how they became who they are, and where their personal journey might be heading.

Such a guiding concept, which will shape any needed interventions, is called a case conceptualization, and we will examine various examples in this article.

Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Positive CBT Exercises for free . These science-based exercises will provide you with detailed insight into positive Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and give you the tools to apply it in your therapy or coaching.

This Article Contains:

What is a case conceptualization or formulation, 4 things to include in your case formulation, a helpful example & model, 3 samples of case formulations, 6 templates and worksheets for counselors, relevant resources from positivepsychology.com, a take-home message.

In psychology and related fields, a case conceptualization summarizes the key facts and findings from an evaluation to provide guidance for recommendations.

This is typically the evaluation of an individual, although you can extend the concept of case conceptualization to summarizing findings about a group or organization.

Based on the case conceptualization, recommendations can be made to improve a client’s self-care , mental status, job performance, etc (Sperry & Sperry, 2020).

Summary of the client’s identifying information, referral questions, and timeline of important events or factors in their life . A timeline can be especially helpful in understanding how the client’s strengths and limitations have evolved.
Statement of the client’s core strengths . Identifying core strengths in the client’s life should help guide any recommendations, including how strengths might be used to offset limitations.
Statement concerning a client’s limitations or weaknesses . This will also help guide any recommendations. If a weakness is worth mentioning in a case conceptualization, it is worth writing a recommendation about it.

Note: As with mental status examinations , observations in this context concerning weaknesses are not value judgments, about whether the client is a good person, etc. The observations are clinical judgments meant to guide recommendations.

A summary of how the strengths, limitations, and other key information about a client inform diagnosis and prognosis .

You should briefly clarify how you arrived at a given diagnosis. For example, why do you believe a personality disorder is primary, rather than a major depressive disorder?

Many clinicians provide diagnoses in formal psychiatric terms, per the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) or Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Some clinicians will state a diagnosis in less formal terms that do not coincide exactly with ICD-10 or DSM-5 codes. What is arguably more important is that a diagnostic impression, formal or not, gives a clear sense of who the person is and the support they need to reach their goals.

Prognosis is a forecast about whether the client’s condition can be expected to improve, worsen, or remain stable. Prognosis can be difficult, as it often depends on unforeseeable factors. However, this should not keep you from offering a conservative opinion on a client’s expected course, provided treatment recommendations are followed.

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Based on the pointers for writing a case conceptualization above, an example for summarizing an adolescent case (in this instance, a counseling case for relieving depression and improving social skills) might read as follows.

Background and referral information

This is a 15-year-old Haitian–American youth, referred by his mother for concerns about self-isolation, depression, and poor social skills. He reportedly moved with his mother to the United States three years ago.

He reportedly misses his life and friends in Haiti. The mother states he has had difficulty adjusting socially in the United States, especially with peers. He has become increasingly self-isolating, appears sad and irritable, and has started to refuse to go to school.

His mother is very supportive and aware of his emotional–behavioral needs. The youth has been enrolled in a social skills group at school and has attended three sessions, with some reported benefit. He is agreeable to start individual counseling. He reportedly does well in school academically when he applies himself.

Limitations

Behavioral form completed by his mother shows elevated depression scale (T score = 80). There is a milder elevation on the inattention scale (T score = 60), which suggests depression is more acute than inattention and might drive it.

He is also elevated on a scale measuring social skills and involvement (T score = 65). Here too, it is reasonable to assume that depression is driving social isolation and difficulty relating to peers, especially since while living in Haiti, he was reportedly quite social with peers.

Diagnostic impressions, treatment guidance, prognosis

This youth’s history, presentation on interview, and results of emotional–behavioral forms suggest some difficulty with depression, likely contributing to social isolation. As he has no prior reported history of depression, this is most likely a reaction to missing his former home and difficulty adjusting to his new school and peers.

Treatments should include individual counseling with an evidence-based approach such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). His counselor should consider emotional processing and social skills building as well.

Prognosis is favorable, with anticipated benefit apparent within 12 sessions of CBT.

How to write a case conceptualization: An outline

The following outline is necessarily general. It can be modified as needed, with points excluded or added, depending on the case.

Client’s gender, age, level of education, vocational status, marital status
Referred by whom, why, and for what type of service (e.g., testing, counseling, coaching)
In the spirit of strengths-based assessment, consider listing the client’s strengths first, before any limitations.
Consider the full range of positive factors supporting the client.
Physical health
Family support
Financial resources
Capacity to work
Resilience or other positive personality traits
Emotional stability
Cognitive strengths, per history and testing
The client’s limitations or relative weaknesses should be described in a way that highlights those most needing attention or treatment.
Medical conditions affecting daily functioning
Lack of family or other social support
Limited financial resources
Inability to find or hold suitable employment
Substance abuse or dependence
Proneness to interpersonal conflict
Emotional–behavioral problems, including anxious or depressive symptoms
Cognitive deficits, per history and testing
Diagnoses that are warranted can be given in either DSM-5 or ICD-10 terms.
There can be more than one diagnosis given. If that’s the case, consider describing these in terms of primary diagnosis, secondary diagnosis, etc.
The primary diagnosis should best encompass the client’s key symptoms or traits, best explain their behavior, or most need treatment.
Take care to avoid over-assigning multiple and potentially overlapping diagnoses.

When writing a case conceptualization, always keep in mind the timeline of significant events or factors in the examinee’s life.

Decide which events or factors are significant enough to include in a case conceptualization.
When these points are placed in a timeline, they help you understand how the person has evolved to become who they are now.
A good timeline can also help you understand which factors in a person’s life might be causative for others. For example, if a person has suffered a frontal head injury in the past year, this might help explain their changeable moods, presence of depressive disorder, etc.

Sample #1: Conceptualization for CBT case

This is a 35-year-old Caucasian man referred by his physician for treatment of generalized anxiety.

Strengths/supports in his case include willingness to engage in treatment, high average intelligence per recent cognitive testing, supportive family, and regular physical exercise (running).

Limiting factors include relatively low stress coping skills, frequent migraines (likely stress related), and relative social isolation (partly due to some anxiety about social skills).

The client’s presentation on interview and review of medical/psychiatric records show a history of chronic worry, including frequent worries about his wife’s health and his finances. He meets criteria for DSM-5 generalized anxiety disorder. He has also described occasional panic-type episodes, which do not currently meet full criteria for panic disorder but could develop into such without preventive therapy.

Treatments should include CBT for generalized anxiety, including keeping a worry journal; regular assessment of anxiety levels with Penn State Worry Questionnaire and/or Beck Anxiety Inventory; cognitive restructuring around negative beliefs that reinforce anxiety; and practice of relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation and diaphragmatic breathing .

Prognosis is good, given the evidence for efficacy of CBT for anxiety disorders generally (Hofmann, Asnaani, Vonk, Sawyer, & Fang, 2012).

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Sample #2: Conceptualization for DBT case

This 51-year-old Haitian–American woman is self-referred for depressive symptoms, including reported moods of “rage,” “sadness,” and “emptiness.” She says that many of her difficulties involve family, friends, and coworkers who regularly “disrespect” her and “plot against her behind her back.”

Her current psychiatrist has diagnosed her with personality disorder with borderline features, but she doubts the accuracy of this diagnosis.

Strengths/supports include a willingness to engage in treatment, highly developed and marketable computer programming skills, and engagement in leisure activities such as playing backgammon with friends.

Limiting factors include low stress coping skills, mild difficulties with attention and recent memory (likely due in part to depressive affect), and a tendency to self-medicate with alcohol when feeling depressed.

The client’s presentation on interview, review of medical/psychiatric records, and results of MMPI-2 personality inventory corroborate her psychiatrist’s diagnosis of borderline personality disorder.

The diagnosis is supported by a longstanding history of unstable identity, volatile personal relationships with fear of being abandoned, feelings of emptiness, reactive depressive disorder with suicidal gestures, and lack of insight into interpersonal difficulties that have resulted in her often stressed and depressive state.

Treatments should emphasize a DBT group that her psychiatrist has encouraged her to attend but to which she has not yet gone. There should also be regular individual counseling emphasizing DBT skills including mindfulness or present moment focus, building interpersonal skills, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. There should be a counseling element for limiting alcohol use. Cognitive exercises are also recommended.

Of note, DBT is the only evidence-based treatment for borderline personality disorder (May, Richardi, & Barth, 2016). Prognosis is guardedly optimistic, provided she engages in both group and individual DBT treatments on a weekly basis, and these treatments continue without interruption for at least three months, with refresher sessions as needed.

Sample #3: Conceptualization in a family therapy case

This 45-year-old African-American woman was initially referred for individual therapy for “rapid mood swings” and a tendency to become embroiled in family conflicts. Several sessions of family therapy also appear indicated, and her psychiatrist concurs.

The client’s husband (50 years old) and son (25 years old, living with parents) were interviewed separately and together. When interviewed separately, her husband and son each indicated the client’s alcohol intake was “out of control,” and that she was consuming about six alcoholic beverages throughout the day, sometimes more.

Her husband and son each said the client was often too tired for household duties by the evening and often had rapid shifts in mood from happy to angry to “crying in her room.”

On individual interview, the client stated that her husband and son were each drinking about as much as she, that neither ever offered to help her with household duties, and that her son appeared unable to keep a job, which left him home most of the day, making demands on her for meals, etc.

On interview with the three family members, each acknowledged that the instances above were occurring at home, although father and son tended to blame most of the problems, including son’s difficulty maintaining employment, on the client and her drinking.

Strengths/supports in the family include a willingness of each member to engage in family sessions, awareness of supportive resources such as assistance for son’s job search, and a willingness by all to examine and reduce alcohol use by all family members as needed.

Limiting factors in this case include apparent tendency of all household members to drink to some excess, lack of insight by one or more family members as to how alcohol consumption is contributing to communication and other problems in the household, and a tendency by husband and son to make this client the family scapegoat.

The family dynamic can be conceptualized in this case through a DBT lens.

From this perspective, problems develop within the family when the environment is experienced by one or more members as invalidating and unsupportive. DBT skills with a nonjudgmental focus, active listening to others, reflecting each other’s feelings, and tolerance of distress in the moment should help to develop an environment that supports all family members and facilitates effective communication.

It appears that all family members in this case would benefit from engaging in the above DBT skills, to support and communicate with one another.

Prognosis is guardedly optimistic if family will engage in therapy with DBT elements for at least six sessions (with refresher sessions as needed).

Introduction to case conceptualization – Thomas Field

The following worksheets can be used for case conceptualization and planning.

Case Conceptualization Worksheet: Individual Counseling helps counselors develop a case conceptualization for individual clients.
Case Conceptualization Worksheet: Couples Counseling helps counselors develop a case conceptualization for couples.
Case Conceptualization Worksheet: Family Counseling helps counselors develop a case conceptualization for families.
Case Conceptualization and Action Plan: Individual Counseling helps clients facilitate conceptualization of their own case, at approximately six weeks into counseling and thereafter at appropriate intervals.
Case Conceptualization and Action Plan: Couples Counseling helps couples facilitate conceptualization of their own case, at approximately six weeks into counseling and thereafter at appropriate intervals.
Case Conceptualization and Action Plan: Family Counseling helps families facilitate conceptualization of their own case, at approximately six weeks into counseling and thereafter at appropriate intervals.

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Analyzing Strengths Use in Different Life Domains can help clients understand their notable strengths and which strengths can be used to more advantage in new contexts.

Family Strength Spotting is another relevant resource. Each family member fills out a worksheet detailing notable strengths of other family members. In reviewing all worksheets, each family member can gain a greater appreciation for other members’ strengths, note common or unique strengths, and determine how best to use these combined strengths to achieve family goals.

Four Front Assessment is another resource designed to help counselors conceptualize a case based on a client’s personal and environmental strengths and weaknesses. The idea behind this tool is that environmental factors in the broad sense, such as a supportive/unsupportive family, are too often overlooked in conceptualizing a case.

If you’re looking for more science-based ways to help others through CBT, check out this collection of 17 validated positive CBT tools for practitioners. Use them to help others overcome unhelpful thoughts and feelings and develop more positive behaviors.

In helping professions, success in working with clients depends first and foremost on how well you understand them.

This understanding is crystallized in a case conceptualization.

Case conceptualization helps answer key questions. Who is this client? How did they become who they are? What supports do they need to reach their goals?

The conceptualization itself depends on gathering all pertinent data on a given case, through record review, interview, behavioral observation, questionnaires completed by the client, etc.

Once the data is assembled, the counselor, coach, or other involved professional can focus on enumerating the client’s strengths, weaknesses, and limitations.

It is also often helpful to put the client’s strengths and limitations in a timeline so you can see how they have evolved and which factors might have contributed to the emergence of others.

Based on this in-depth understanding of the client, you can then tailor specific recommendations for enhancing their strengths, overcoming their weaknesses, and reaching their particular goals.

We hope you have enjoyed this discussion of how to conceptualize cases in the helping professions and that you will find some tools for doing so useful.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. For more information, don’t forget to download our three Positive CBT Exercises for free .

Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2012). The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy: A review of meta-analyses. Cognitive Therapy and Research , 36 (5), 427–440.
May, J. M., Richardi, T. M., & Barth, K. S. (2016). Dialectical behavior therapy as treatment for borderline personality disorder. The Mental Health Clinician , 6 (2), 62–67.
Sperry, L., & Sperry, J. (2020). Case conceptualization: Mastering this competency with ease and confidence . Routledge.

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How to Write a Good Case Study in Psychology (A Step-by-Step Guide)

March 4, 2022
Teaching Kids

A case study psychology is a type of research that uses real-life examples to help understand psychological concepts. This type of research can be used in a variety of settings, such as business, health care, education, and social services.

Case studies are typically composed of three parts: the problem or issue, the intervention or treatment, and the outcome. The problem or issue is what caused the person to seek help, and the intervention or treatment is what was done to try to solve it. The outcome is how things changed after the intervention or treatment was implemented.

Step by step instructions on how to write an effective case study in Psychology

1. Gain Knowledge About The Topic

To write a case study in psychology, you will need to do some research on the topic you are writing about. Make sure that you read journal articles, books, a case study example, and any other reliable sources in order to get a comprehensive understanding of the topic. You will also need to find a suitable example or examples of how psychological concepts have been applied in real-life situations. For example, a psychology student might interview a friend about how she balances her time between work and studies.

2. Research the Individual or Event

In this case, you can choose either a person or an event for your case study research. If you are writing about a specific event, look for past issues that relate to it and any ongoing ones that may have a connection to it.

You may choose to write about a specific problem or situation that affected the individual in some way, such as how it relates to their psychology. For example, you may want to study a man who has been in relationships with several women within the same time period and what effects this has on them.

If you are writing about a person, obtain biographical information and look for any psychological assessments that have been done on the individual.

3. Analyze The Information

Once you have gathered all the necessary information, it is time to go through it and identify important facts that will influence your paper.

This is where you use your skills of inductive and deductive reasoning, to analyze the information that you have gathered. You will usually look for patterns within this information and draw conclusions about how it has affected or contributed to their psychology.

Summarize each point in order to make note-taking easier later on when writing your case study.

4. Draft A Plan

Once you have gathered all the relevant information, it is time to start drafting a plan for your case study. This case study format should include an introduction, body, and conclusion.

The body of the case study should be divided into different sections that will discuss different aspects of the topic. Make sure that your argument is clear and concise, and that you use data to support your ideas, rather than simply stating them as facts or personal opinions.

5. Structure Your Work

As mentioned in the previous step, the body of the case study should be divided into different sections for effective writing. The introduction should include a short paragraph about what you plan to write in the study and what the case study method will be, while the conclusion should summarize your argument and leave the reader with a sense of closure. Each section in the body should have its own heading to help the reader follow your line of argument.

6. Write The Case Study

Now that you have a plan and structure for your case study, it is time to start writing!

Even if you are writing a case study on your own, break it down into small sections and make sure you include every aspect of the topic within each section. Think about how you will present your case study and what points are essential to make in the body.

Include details, quotes, infographics or numeric data that help support your arguments and overall conclusion. This is what makes a great case study: An overview of every aspect of the topic researched within it!

7. Write a Theoretical Introduction

In this section, you will introduce your topic and explain why it is significant in relation to the area of psychology that you are studying.

In the theoretical introduction, you will write about the basic principles of human psychology and growth, then explain how you think this situation relates to your study topic.

After explaining the theoretical part in detail, state why studying this particular aspect will help psychologists understand aspects of humanity within different areas such as sociology or anthropology.

8. Describe How The Individual or Event Was Studied

Researchers in psychology write case studies to gain an in-depth understanding of specific topics pertaining to their field. For this reason, you should explain how you came across your sources of information and why this was beneficial to your research.

In describing how the individual or event was studied, you may also include information about what you discovered through your research and why it is important.

9. Write a Conclusion

In this part of your essay, bring together all key points discussed in the course of writing the case study. You should summarize what you have written and state your own conclusions based on the research that you have conducted.

10. Edit And Proofread The Case Study

Once you have finished writing the case study, it is important to edit and proofread it carefully. This will help to correct any grammatical errors that may have slipped into the writing process, and will also ensure that you are producing an accurate document. You might find it helpful to seek advice from someone who has experience in this field before sending it off for submission.

11. Submit It To The Appropriate Sources

When submitting your case study, make sure that you are sending it to the correct journal or publication. Check the submission guidelines carefully to make sure that your case study meets all the requirements.

By following these steps, you can create a well-written case study that will provide readers with a clear understanding of the topic at hand. Remember to take your time while researching and writing, and to be as thorough as possible in order to produce a high-quality document. Good luck!

Brilliant Case Study Examples and Templates For Your Help

15 min read

An Overview of Case Studies

A case study is a research method used to study a particular individual, group, or situation in depth. It involves analyzing and interpreting data from a variety of sources to gain insight into the subject being studied.

Case studies are often used in psychology, business, and education to explore complicated problems and find solutions. They usually have detailed descriptions of the subject, background info, and an analysis of the main issues.

The goal of a case study is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Typically, case studies can be divided into three parts, challenges, solutions, and results.

Here is a case study sample PDF so you can have a clearer understanding of what a case study actually is:

Case Study Sample PDF

How to Write a Case Study Examples

Learn how to write a case study with the help of our comprehensive case study guide.

Case Study Examples for Students

Quite often, students are asked to present case studies in their academic journeys. The reason instructors assign case studies is for students to sharpen their critical analysis skills, understand how companies make profits, etc.

Below are some case study examples in research, suitable for students:

Case Study Example in Software Engineering

Qualitative Research Case Study Sample

Software Quality Assurance Case Study

Social Work Case Study Example

Ethical Case Study

Case Study Example PDF

These examples can guide you on how to structure and format your own case studies.

Struggling with formatting your case study? Check this case study format guide and perfect your document’s structure today.

Business Case Study Examples

A business case study examines a business’s specific challenge or goal and how it should be solved. Business case studies usually focus on several details related to the initial challenge and proposed solution.

To help you out, here are some samples so you can create case studies that are related to businesses:

Here are some more business case study examples:

Business Case Studies PDF

Business Case Studies Example

Typically, a business case study discovers one of your customer's stories and how you solved a problem for them. It allows your prospects to see how your solutions address their needs.

Medical Case Study Examples

Medical case studies are an essential part of medical education. They help students to understand how to diagnose and treat patients.

Here are some medical case study examples to help you.

Medical Case Study Example

Nursing Case Study Example

Want to understand the various types of case studies? Check out our types of case study blog to select the perfect type.

Psychology Case Study Examples

Case studies are a great way of investigating individuals with psychological abnormalities. This is why it is a very common assignment in psychology courses.

By examining all the aspects of your subject’s life, you discover the possible causes of exhibiting such behavior.

For your help, here are some interesting psychology case study examples:

Psychology Case Study Example

Mental Health Case Study Example

Sales Case Study Examples

Case studies are important tools for sales teams’ performance improvement. By examining sales successes, teams can gain insights into effective strategies and create action plans to employ similar tactics.

By researching case studies of successful sales campaigns, sales teams can more accurately identify challenges and develop solutions.

Sales Case Study Example

Interview Case Study Examples

Interview case studies provide businesses with invaluable information. This data allows them to make informed decisions related to certain markets or subjects.

Interview Case Study Example

Marketing Case Study Examples

Marketing case studies are real-life stories that showcase how a business solves a problem. They typically discuss how a business achieves a goal using a specific marketing strategy or tactic.

They typically describe a challenge faced by a business, the solution implemented, and the results achieved.

This is a short sample marketing case study for you to get an idea of what an actual marketing case study looks like.

: ABC Solutions, a leading provider of tech products and services.

Engaging and informative content highlighting products and services.
Incorporating real-world examples to showcase the impact of ABC Solutions.

Utilizing analytics to refine content strategies.
Aligning content with customer needs and pain points.

Content marketing efforts led to a significant boost in brand visibility.
Compelling narratives highlighting how products and services transformed businesses.

Here are some more popular marketing studies that show how companies use case studies as a means of marketing and promotion:

“Chevrolet Discover the Unexpected” by Carol H. Williams

This case study explores Chevrolet's “ DTU Journalism Fellows ” program. The case study uses the initials “DTU” to generate interest and encourage readers to learn more.

Multiple types of media, such as images and videos, are used to explain the challenges faced. The case study concludes with an overview of the achievements that were met.

Key points from the case study include:

Using a well-known brand name in the title can create interest.
Combining different media types, such as headings, images, and videos, can help engage readers and make the content more memorable.
Providing a summary of the key achievements at the end of the case study can help readers better understand the project's impact.

“The Met” by Fantasy

“ The Met ” by Fantasy is a fictional redesign of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, created by the design studio Fantasy. The case study clearly and simply showcases the museum's website redesign.

The Met emphasizes the website’s features and interface by showcasing each section of the interface individually, allowing the readers to concentrate on the significant elements.

For those who prefer text, each feature includes an objective description. The case study also includes a “Contact Us” call-to-action at the bottom of the page, inviting visitors to contact the company.

Key points from this “The Met” include:

Keeping the case study simple and clean can help readers focus on the most important aspects.
Presenting the features and solutions with a visual showcase can be more effective than writing a lot of text.
Including a clear call-to-action at the end of the case study can encourage visitors to contact the company for more information.

“Better Experiences for All” by Herman Miller

Herman Miller's minimalist approach to furniture design translates to their case study, “ Better Experiences for All ”, for a Dubai hospital. The page features a captivating video with closed-captioning and expandable text for accessibility.

The case study presents a wealth of information in a concise format, enabling users to grasp the complexities of the strategy with ease. It concludes with a client testimonial and a list of furniture items purchased from the brand.

Key points from the “Better Experiences” include:

Make sure your case study is user-friendly by including accessibility features like closed captioning and expandable text.
Include a list of products that were used in the project to guide potential customers.

“NetApp” by Evisort

Evisort's case study on “ NetApp ” stands out for its informative and compelling approach. The study begins with a client-centric overview of NetApp, strategically directing attention to the client rather than the company or team involved.

The case study incorporates client quotes and explores NetApp’s challenges during COVID-19. Evisort showcases its value as a client partner by showing how its services supported NetApp through difficult times.

Provide an overview of the company in the client’s words, and put focus on the customer.
Highlight how your services can help clients during challenging times.
Make your case study accessible by providing it in various formats.

“Red Sox Season Campaign,” by CTP Boston

The “ Red Sox Season Campaign ” showcases a perfect blend of different media, such as video, text, and images. Upon visiting the page, the video plays automatically, there are videos of Red Sox players, their images, and print ads that can be enlarged with a click.

The page features an intuitive design and invites viewers to appreciate CTP's well-rounded campaign for Boston's beloved baseball team. There’s also a CTA that prompts viewers to learn how CTP can create a similar campaign for their brand.

Some key points to take away from the “Red Sox Season Campaign”:

Including a variety of media such as video, images, and text can make your case study more engaging and compelling.
Include a call-to-action at the end of your study that encourages viewers to take the next step towards becoming a customer or prospect.

“Airbnb + Zendesk” by Zendesk

The case study by Zendesk, titled “ Airbnb + Zendesk : Building a powerful solution together,” showcases a true partnership between Airbnb and Zendesk.

The article begins with an intriguing opening statement, “Halfway around the globe is a place to stay with your name on it. At least for a weekend,” and uses stunning images of beautiful Airbnb locations to captivate readers.

Instead of solely highlighting Zendesk's product, the case study is crafted to tell a good story and highlight Airbnb's service in detail. This strategy makes the case study more authentic and relatable.

Some key points to take away from this case study are:

Use client's offerings' images rather than just screenshots of your own product or service.
To begin the case study, it is recommended to include a distinct CTA. For instance, Zendesk presents two alternatives, namely to initiate a trial or seek a solution.

“Influencer Marketing” by Trend and WarbyParker

The case study "Influencer Marketing" by Trend and Warby Parker highlights the potential of influencer content marketing, even when working with a limited budget.

The “Wearing Warby” campaign involved influencers wearing Warby Parker glasses during their daily activities, providing a glimpse of the brand's products in use.

This strategy enhanced the brand's relatability with influencers' followers. While not detailing specific tactics, the case study effectively illustrates the impact of third-person case studies in showcasing campaign results.

Key points to take away from this case study are:

Influencer marketing can be effective even with a limited budget.
Showcasing products being used in everyday life can make a brand more approachable and relatable.
Third-person case studies can be useful in highlighting the success of a campaign.

Marketing Case Study Template

Marketing Case Study Example

Now that you have read multiple case study examples, hop on to our tips.

Tips to Write a Good Case Study

Here are some note-worthy tips to craft a winning case study

Define the purpose of the case study This will help you to focus on the most important aspects of the case. The case study objective helps to ensure that your finished product is concise and to the point.
Choose a real-life example. One of the best ways to write a successful case study is to choose a real-life example. This will give your readers a chance to see how the concepts apply in a real-world setting.
Keep it brief. This means that you should only include information that is directly relevant to your topic and avoid adding unnecessary details.
Use strong evidence. To make your case study convincing, you will need to use strong evidence. This can include statistics, data from research studies, or quotes from experts in the field.
Edit and proofread your work. Before you submit your case study, be sure to edit and proofread your work carefully. This will help to ensure that there are no errors and that your paper is clear and concise.

There you go!

We’re sure that now you have secrets to writing a great case study at your fingertips! This blog teaches the key guidelines of various case studies with samples. So grab your pen and start crafting a winning case study right away!

Having said that, we do understand that some of you might be having a hard time writing compelling case studies.

But worry not! Our expert case study writing service is here to take all your case-writing blues away!

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How to Write a Psychology Case Study in 8 Easy Steps

Writing a psychology case study involves an in-depth analysis of a person, organization, or event to learn more about psychological phenomena. The study usually includes an introduction, case description, analysis, and conclusion. The objective is to describe the topic thoroughly, support the development of theories, and present real-world applications for psychological interventions and procedures.

Therefore, it becomes difficult to figure out how to write a Psychology Case Study. Every aspect may seem difficult when writing one, whether you’re a professional, researcher, or student. It takes skill and accuracy to deal with it all.

We at Casestudyhelp.com can help with case study assignments . We provide effective help on How to Write a Psychology Case Study. We guide all your requirements. Our team of professionals and experts is committed to assisting you in producing case studies that are comprehensive, perceptive, and unique. You can complete any psychology case study with our help, guaranteeing academic and professional success.

What is a Psychology Case Study?

A case study in psychology is a comprehensive examination of a person, organization, or occasion. It’s a study technique frequently employed in psychology to acquire in-depth data and understand the subjects’ behaviour, ideas, and feelings. By scrutinizing just one case, psychologists can investigate complex problems that may prove challenging to tackle using alternative study approaches or the Case Study Method.

Why is Psychology Case Studies Important?

Psychology case studies are vital because they provide a good understanding of the Psychology case study topics . They make it possible for researchers to get deeply into the minute details of mental processes and behaviour in people.

Moreover, a Case Study Report in Psychology can reveal patterns and provide a basis for developing theories and interventions. They are also excellent teaching resources, providing practitioners and students with in-depth examples to learn from.

Further, psychology case studies are invaluable for several reasons:

Detailed analysis

They provide a detailed examination of a single subject. This allows a better understanding of complex psychological issues in all Psychology case study topics.

Practical application

Case studies help bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world scenarios. At Casestuddyhelp.com, we provide many examples of psychology case studies!

Theoretical foundations

They help grow and improve psychological theories. With Casestudyhelp.com, you will always get a psychology case study template to help you understand it better.

Educational benefits

Case studies are an excellent teaching tool because they offer real-world examples of psychological concepts and treatment techniques. Writing a psychology case study with Casestudyhelp.com will give you an overview of these concepts !

Perspectives that are unique

Psychologists can better understand psychological phenomena more complexly through analysis of psychology case studies.

A Case Study method is an excellent tool for exploring various psychological issues because it is adaptable to various individuals and circumstances.

In essence, psychology case studies are essential for advancing the field of psychology, offering detailed, real-world insights.

Trust us at Casestudyhelp.com to help you understand the dynamics of a psychological case study while providing the best services in psychology case study writing.

Have a free discussion on Psychology Case Study with experts at Casestudyhelp.com.

Must Read: Why Students Prefer Case Study Help across the Globe

Types of Psychology Case Studies

Psychology case studies are available in various formats, each with a particular function and set of insights. Researchers and students can choose the best psychology case study analysis for their specific needs by solidly grasping these various categories. Different (main) types of topics we at Casestudyhelp.com help with are as follows:

Descriptive Case Studies

Descriptive case studies thoroughly describe the topic without attempting to establish a causal connection. They put a lot of effort into capturing the traits of a person or a group and their environment. Psychology case study writing is frequently employed to grasp a particular case thoroughly.

Exploratory Case Studies

An exploratory Psychology Case Study Report is a preliminary investigation designed to answer research questions and potential lines of inquiry. It then helps expand the scope to gain more insight into the topic. These investigations help explore new fields.

Explanatory Case Studies

The purpose of explanatory case studies is to clarify the origins and consequences of a specific occurrence. Explanatory psychology case study format offers a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms. It examines the interconnections between various components.

Intrinsic Case Studies

Studies of intrinsic cases concentrate on a particular, compelling example. The study’s subject is particularly interesting because of its unique qualities and importance. The goal of an intrinsic psychology case study is to focus on a particular case.

Instrumental Case Studies

Instrumental case studies offer perspectives on more significant problems beyond the situation. The main objective of helping with a psychology case study of this kind is to comprehend specific phenomena more thoroughly. In that event, the case itself is of secondary importance.

Collective Case Studies

Multiple-case studies, or collective case studies, explore multiple cases simultaneously or chronologically. Researchers might find trends and reach stronger conclusions, giving a deeper understanding of the problem under investigation.

To learn how to get help with writing a psychology case study, contact us at Casestudyhelp.com. Never hesitate to sign up and avail yourself of the best services!

Also Read: How to Write an Effective Case Study Paper

Psychology Case Study Example

Below is a brief and compact example of efficiently writing a psychology case study. Consider the following:

Anna, a 32-year-old woman, showed severe anxiety and depression after losing her job and ending a long-term relationship. These events caused significant emotional distress, impacting her daily life.

Case Description

Anna felt persistent sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness. She had trouble sleeping, lost her appetite, and no longer enjoyed the activities she once did. Her anxiety included constant worry, restlessness, a racing heart, and sweating.

Clinical interviews and assessments confirmed that Anna’s symptoms matched Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. The study explored how her recent life events influenced her psychological symptoms.

Intervention

Anna’s treatment included cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. CBT helped her identify and challenge negative thoughts, develop coping strategies, and gradually re-engage in social activities. Medication managed her anxiety and depressive symptoms.

After three months, Anna’s anxiety and depression significantly decreased. The combination of therapy and medication restored her sense of control and well-being.

This case study shows that CBT and medication effectively treat co-occurring anxiety and depression. It emphasizes the need for an approach addressing psychological and situational mental health factors.

Contact us to learn more and get help writing a psychology case study at Casestudyhelp.com.

Preparing a Psychology Case Study Report like this can be exhausting. If you need help with a Psychology case study, CaseStudyHelp Experts can assist you in crafting comprehensive and professional case studies. These services provide expert guidance, ensuring your case study is thorough, well-organized, and insightful.

Benefits of Psychology Case Studies

Underlined are some of the benefits of writing a psychology case study:

Teaches to tackle different and complex problems in psychology
Provides essential details about a topic that may be missing in numeric outcomes
Helps to further look into a potential problem
Provides a basis for forming new theories
Expands the scope of developing better treatments.

For those who find the process challenging, seeking assistance with psychology case study writing can be highly beneficial. Case study assignment writing services provide expert guidance, ensuring your case studies are thorough, well-structured, and insightful. With professional support, you can enhance the quality of your work and achieve academic success.

How to Write a Psychology Case Study – Step-by-Step Guide

Use the following psychology case study format crafted by us at Casestudyhelp.com; you can craft the perfect study report ever:

Step 1: Choose a Relevant Subject and its Topic

The first crucial step is selecting a subject. If it’s Psychology, choose the appropriate Psychology case study topics. Choose an individual, group, event, or situation that offers valuable insights into psychological phenomena. Ensure the subject is accessible, willing to participate, and obtains necessary permissions.

Step 2: Choose a Case Study Method

There are several Psychology case study methods you can choose from:

Descriptive Case Studies : Focus on offering a detailed account of the subject without seeking to establish causal relationships.
Exploratory Case Studies : Used to identify questions and hypotheses for further research. These typically need to be more structured and provide a broad overview.
Explanatory Case Studies : Aim to explain the causal relationships in real-life contexts, making them ideal for testing theories.
Intrinsic Case Studies : Focused on understanding the unique aspects of the subject due to genuine interest.
Instrumental Case Studies : Provide insights into broader issues or phenomena through the specific Case.

Step 3: Gather Background Information

Collecting comprehensive background information is essential for a thorough understanding of the subject. This information should include:

Personal History : Details about the subject’s early life, family background, education, and significant life events.
Medical History : Information about physical health issues, hospitalizations, and medications.
Psychological History : Previous psychological diagnoses, therapies, and relevant psychological assessments.
Current Situation : The subject’s living situation, employment status, relationships, and daily routines.
Behavioural Observations : Notes on the subject’s behaviour during interviews and observations.
Interview Data : Insights from interviews with the subject and significant others, such as family members or close friends.

Step 4: Discuss the Subject’s Challenges

Identify and articulate the psychological challenges faced by the subject. This involves describing the symptoms, behaviours, and contextual factors contributing to these challenges. Consider the following:

Symptom Description : Detailed descriptions of the subject’s symptoms, including frequency, intensity, and duration.
Behavioural Patterns : Analysis of recurring behaviours that indicate underlying psychological issues.
Environmental Factors : Contextual elements such as family dynamics, social relationships, and living conditions that may impact the subject’s psychological state.
Impact on Daily Life : The psychological challenges affect the subject’s daily functioning, including work, social interactions, and personal well-being.

Clearly defining these challenges sets the stage for your analysis and subsequent diagnosis.

Step 5: Study the Data and Specify a Diagnosis

Study the collected data to recognize patterns and relationships. This step involves:

Data Organization : Systematically organizing the data to identify significant themes and patterns.
Theoretical Application : Interpreting the data requires applying relevant psychological theories. For example, cognitive-behavioural theory can help understand thought patterns, and psychodynamic theory can explore unconscious processes.
Diagnostic Criteria : These are the criteria used to compare the subject’s symptoms and behaviours with established diagnostic criteria, such as those in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).
Hypothesis Testing : Testing your initial hypothesis against the collected data to see if it holds or needs adjustment.

Step 6: Choose a Treatment Approach

Selecting an appropriate treatment approach is critical. Here are some common methods:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) : Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is an effective treatment strategy for anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
Psychodynamic Therapy : Explores unconscious processes and past experiences to understand current behaviour. It helps treat personality disorders and complex emotional issues.
Humanistic Therapy : Emphasizes personal growth and self-fulfilment, focusing on the individual’s potential and self-awareness.
Behavioural Therapy: Targets changing specific behaviours through conditioning techniques. It is often used to treat phobias and compulsive behaviours.
Family Therapy : Involves treating the family unit to address systemic issues. It is effective for resolving family conflicts and improving communication.

Choosing the right approach involves considering the subject’s needs, preferences, and psychological challenges.

Also Read: 181+ Latest Case Study Topics for Students to Think About

Step 7: Explaining Treatment Objectives and Procedures

Clearly outline the objectives of the chosen treatment approach. Describe the procedures and techniques that will be used to achieve these objectives. It includes:

Therapy Goals : Specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for the therapy.
Intervention Techniques : Detailed descriptions of the therapeutic techniques and strategies will be employed.
Session Structure : An outline of therapy sessions’ frequency, duration, and format.
Expected Outcomes : Anticipated improvements and milestones in the subject’s psychological state.

Explaining these elements helps ensure transparency and sets clear expectations for the treatment process.

Step 8: Write a Discussion Section

The discussion section is where you interpret your findings and evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment. It involves:

Findings Interpretation : Discuss how your findings align with or differ from existing literature and theories.
Treatment Evaluation : Assessing the effectiveness of the treatment approach based on the subject’s progress and any changes in their symptoms.
Implications : Exploring the broader implications of your case study for understanding the psychological phenomena in question.
Limitations : Acknowledging any limitations of your study, such as sample size, potential biases, or external factors that may have influenced the results.
Future Research : Suggesting areas for future research that could build on your findings.

For additional support, consider utilizing case study help services to enhance the quality of your work.

Also Read: How To Write A Convincing Case Study In 7 Easy Steps?

Tips for Writing an Effective Psychology Case Study

We have listed a few important pointers in crafting an effective case study:

Have a fair tone and avoid bias. Always be objective in your Psychology Case Study Report.
Offer complete explanations and entire details. Always keep the information specific.
Write straightforwardly. Your writing should be to the point.
The language should be clear and easy to read.
Use headings and subheadings. Maintain a static psychology case study format.
To improve your psychology case study analysis, consider multiple viewpoints.
To ensure clarity in your writing, proofread your psychology case study format and work.

Seek Professional Help: If you face difficulties with case study assignments, consider asking for help. Professional academic assistance can provide valuable guidance and ensure your case study meets high academic standards.

Must Read: A Complete Guide to Writing an Effective Case Study

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Psychology Case Studies

A psychology case study can often lead to many mistakes, such as forming a bias in your judgement due to personal attachment. Read to learn what to avoid!

Avoid lacking focus throughout:

Make your research specific, and stay focused on the subject. Hence, follow a proper psychology case study format.

Make sure your information is adequate:

Before choosing a topic, check if enough information can be collected. Contact us at casestudyhelp.com today to prepare the best Psychology Case Study Report.

Do not form bias of any kind:

Avoid being partial at any point. Reach out to us at Casestudhelp.com for the proper psychology case study template to write!

Do not overly generalize a conclusion:

Be mindful of making general statements from a topic with a broad scope. Casestudyhelp.com provides the right Case Study Method to conclude the best possible report.

Abide by the required ethics:

Maintaining confidentiality and the welfare of the subject is very important. Our psychology case study examples make it easy to understand how to achieve this.

Visit Casestudyhelp.com to understand how writing a psychology case study works despite the toughness. Contact us today!

Also Read: How to Write a Critical Evaluation Essay in Psychology?

Conclusion: The Value of Psychology Case Studies

Psychology case studies are wonderful resources that increase our knowledge of human behaviour. This is mainly achieved through in-depth psychology case study analysis. Mentioned below are some important points regarding the values these case studies provide:

These studies offer important insights into complex Psychology case study topics that other case study methods may overlook.
The case study method’s flexibility allows researchers to match their approach to various subjects, making it a versatile tool in the field of psychology.
Writing a psychology case study provides rich and detailed data, as well as both theoretical and practical solutions.

To summarize, Help with psychology case studies is essential as they provide detailed insights that improve our knowledge of human behaviour, both in theory and practice.

Author Bio:

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What Is a Case Study?

Why is everyone talking about case study help, how to write a case study report in social work, get expert help in mba case study report writing, how to write an effective case study paper.

How to Write a Case Study Assignment for Psychology

If you are pursuing a psychology course either in college or university, you have or are most likely to encounter psychology case studies as assignments. In this comprehensive guide I will teach you how to write a compelling case study for psychology.

Table of Contents Toggle What is a psychology Case Study? How Case Studies are Presented Purpose of psychology Case Study Writing Commonly Used Approaches for Psychology Case Study Writing Cognitive-behavioral Psychoanalytic Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis Grounded Theory Types of Psychology Case Studies Descriptive Case Studies Collective Case Studies Explanatory Case Studies Exploratory Case Studies Instrumental case studies Intrinsic Case Studies Advantages and Disadvantages of Case Studies Advantages of psychology case study writing Disadvantages The Steps You Need for Psychology Case Study Writing Selecting the Subject Gather information Selecting a Case Study Method Identify the Key Issues Description of the solution Analyze Most Common Psychology Case Studies that Can Inspire you Anna O Phineas Gage Genie More Tips on how to write a case study assignment for psychology Tell a story Use Appropriate Language Approach it as a Challenge Don’t be biased! Seek Help

If you are pursuing a psychology course either in college or university, you have or are most likely to encounter writing a psychology case study as an assignment. It is commonly employed by colleges and universities that employ both the theoretical and practical aspects of learning. There is a need to understand that writing a case study assignment for psychology is time-consuming and uses a lot of cognitive resources, which explains why it is not most students’ cup of tea. That is why we have crafted this guide on how to write a case study assignment for psychology.

However, everything is possible, including writing the psychology case study. Although you might not have heard about this type of assignment, at the end of this article, you will have the capacity to craft the perfect piece. Or at least you will understand that we have your back if you need us. If, for some reason, you have no time or you are simply disinterested in submitting the case study on your own, just make a request, and our professional psychology essay writers will be ready to assist you.

What is a psychology Case Study?

It is important to understand the definition of a case study . A case study denotes a research method in psychology which helps to examine a specific individual, group, or situation in detail. It entails an in-depth analysis of the subject matter, collecting information from a plethora of sources, for example, interviews, observations, and documents. In case studies, researchers aim to gain a nuanced understanding of the issue under investigation. In this type of research, researchers can examine rare or unique situations that cannot be replicated in the laboratory setting.

How Case Studies are Presented

If you are a psychology student, you may face real or imagined people, characters from books, movies, or TV shows. It is based on the features that your educational program has adopted in addition to your knowledge and expertise. For example, at the undergraduate level, psychology students are not allowed to be real-world students and are only required to conduct observational learning through writing notes. However, if you have some background, you can define a diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate therapy.

Purpose of psychology Case Study Writing

Most of the students learn from real-world examples rather than from theoretical information. Writing psychology case study have proved to be an essential technique for learning because of its uniqueness.

Reliable psychology case studies are instrumental in helping researchers as well as clinical experts to detect and manage unique and impractical diseases. It stems from the fact that the collected data on a certain subject provides information in all aspects. Consequently, by employing this information, students can explore patterns of behavior and sources and come up with strategies for managing them.

Furthermore, a psychology case study provides practical examples of the existing theories and principles, which in turn leads to more advancements in the field. Besides, psychology case study writing is instrumental in clinical psychology. It offers essential insights into the diagnosis, treatment, and clinical outcomes of certain psychological disorders.

Commonly Used Approaches for Psychology Case Study Writing

There are multiple approaches for writing case studies.

This is a holistic method where the focus is on the whole person. This means that in addition to the client’s behavior, the therapist should consider viewing the issues from the subject point of view. This approach is important in evolving and crafting a treatment plan based on the patient’s self-image and feelings.

Cognitive-behavioral

This approach is best suited for patients who are suffering from mood and eating disorders such as depression, mania, schizophrenia, and bulimia nervosa. When working on certain cases, the future therapist should bear in mind the patient’s behaviors, beliefs, and thoughts. It sometimes helps to observe the patient’s behavior to understand how they react to a wide range of events and people, etc.

Psychoanalytic

Sigmund Freud developed this approach. It aims to help the patient identify the self-limiting factors, move on from past unpleasant experiences, and gain insight into how their subconscious mind affects their behavior.

Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis

This is a qualitative research method that focuses on how people make sense of their experiences and their significance.

Grounded Theory

Through this approach, you should collect data about the events or subjects under study before moving into integrating them into broader categories. Consequently, you are focusing on how they are related to gain a nuanced understanding of the issues and custom a treatment plan.

Types of Psychology Case Studies

In the following sections, the types of case studies in psychology have been well-elucidated. Having a great understanding of the various types can help you select the most appropriate approach.

Descriptive Case Studies

If you have a hypothesis, you can develop a descriptive study that starts by defining the topic under investigation. This research aims to develop links between the subject matter and the theoretical framework without having to interpret or explain the findings. The investigation is usually concluded as soon as these connections are established, and the study results often suggest the way the theory should be elaborated in the future.

Collective Case Studies

This entails studying a group of individuals. Researchers can study a group of people in a specific setting or consider the whole community. For example, you might consider how access to resources in a certain community affects overall mental well-being.

Explanatory Case Studies

They are employed when carrying out causal investigations. In other words, as a researcher, you will be interested in how certain factors cause other things to occur.

Exploratory Case Studies

They are usually conducted as a prelude for more in-depth research. This ensures that researchers can collect data before developing their research questions and hypotheses.

Instrumental case studies

These take place when an individual or group allows the researchers to gain more understanding than what is obvious to observers at face value.

Intrinsic Case Studies

You can employ this type of case study if you have a personal interest in the case. For example, observing your family or relatives contributes to the development of a psychology theory.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Case Studies

Like any method of inquiry, case studies have both their benefits and limitations, which you should consider when determining if they are appropriate for your needs.

Advantages of psychology case study writing

One of the major benefits of case studies is that it allows you to investigate issues that are difficult to replicate in a laboratory setting. Some of the benefits of case studies include:

Makes it possible for researchers to collect a significant amount of information.
Provides you with the opportunity to collect data on rare or unusual cases.
Helps you develop hypotheses that can be further studied in experimental research.

Disadvantages

On the negative side, a case study:

Results are not generalizable to the rest of the population.
Casuse and effect cannot be demonstrated.
Cannot be scientifically rigorous.
Has a high risk of bias.

The Steps You Need for Psychology Case Study Writing

When working on your student assignments, it is essential to understand the most important next steps. It will be instrumental in finding out the amount of time that should be devoted to it and specific areas that should receive emphasis.

Selecting the Subject

If your professor has assigned you a topic, you do not have to go through this hassle of the selection process. It means that this step is already done. If that is not the case, carefully read the instructor’s requirements before selecting an individual, group, or community to work with.

Gather information

Develop an effective methodology before you start working on any assignment. You need to understand how to collect data, respond to research issues, and find reliable sources of information. Interviews, surveys, and observations are some of the best methods of collecting data. Make sure that the data you collect is relevant to the various aspects of the subject’s life or behaviors that you are planning to investigate.

Through a meticulous collection and organization of data, you will have a great foundation for a more robust case study, which not only informs your reader but also offers the context that is required to make essential observations and draw insightful conclusions.

Selecting a Case Study Method

As soon as you have collected all the required information regarding your subject, the next step will entail selecting the most appropriate case study method. The selected method will dictate the analysis process and presentation of the findings.

Identify the Key Issues

One of the most important steps in a psychology case study is to explain the issue that you are about to research. It sets forth the rationale behind the whole project as well as the scenario that will be followed along.

Write all the issues and challenges that you can detect. Your role is to assess them and identify the most essential ones. Describe each of them in a couple of sentences, showing their effect and consequences. You will find out what should be prioritized. Additionally, working on the issue, there is a need to explain the rationale behind its occurrence. Bear in mind that you will need to address these issues in a real-life context.

Description of the solution

To attain the maximum grade, it is important that you describe the possible solution. Since by now you understand the roots and causes of the problem, focus on the hypothesis that you had and the findings. Did it work out? What did not? Offer a detailed description to satisfy the purpose.

Writing about the solution is not enough. A good case study is meant to teach people something and provide them with information and insights. If you understand the causes and rationale behind your research issue, you could write about them. The other researchers might employ your data for their projects. Besides, there is a need for analysis to understand your strong and weak sides. While working on this section, you will understand that some of the explanations are assumptions while others are based on solid evidence.

Most Common Psychology Case Studies that Can Inspire you

A simple case search on the web can help you get the most common case studies that affected psychology as a science and offer researchers powerful insights. We have compiled a list of case studies that we believe will inspire you.

Anna O is a pseudonym for a woman who was being managed by a physician called Josef Breuer. Even though she was not Freud’s patient, Freud and Breuer discussed her problem in-depth. The patient was suffering from a condition that was by then called hysteria. It was discovered that when she talked, she seemed to relieve her problems. Her case was instrumental in the development of talk therapy as a method of mental health management.

Phineas Gage

Phineas Gage was a railroad employee who suffered a terrible accident whereby an explosion led to a metal rod going through his skull, damaging essential portions of his brain. Although Gage recovered from her accident, she was left with serious alterations in both her personality and behavior.

Genie was a young girl who underwent horrific abuse and isolation. Genie’s case allowed researchers to find out if language can be taught even after missing essential periods for language development. Her case was a great example of how scientific research can interfere with treatment, leading to more abuse of vulnerable individuals.

More Tips on how to write a case study assignment for psychology

Of course, a psychology case study requires a certain set of knowledge and experience.
The product of your psychology case study will depend on your writing skills. And if you are an experienced psychology essay writer, it will make the whole process easy.
Case studies should have clear and understandable thoughts, attract the attention of the reader in the introduction section, and offer evidence-based facts.

Tell a story

Even though your psychology case study is an academic assignment, it is usually paper about someone’s life, and life is always a story.

Use Appropriate Language

When writing a case study, you should strive all the time to understand your target audience. If it is just an academic assignment, stick to the terms and expressions that you use in class. However, for publication purposes, it is essential to consider the readers who are not familiar with psychology as an academic subject.

Approach it as a Challenge

The case study is a very common assignment not only for psychology but for other majors as well. For example, nursing students deal with them as well. However, they might be working under a different set of circumstances, but the major aim is to understand the cause of the patient’s illness and the rationale behind their clinical presentation.

Don’t be biased!

When working with individuals, it is easy to project to them your preconceived notions that might be presented as opinions. In your future career as a psychologist, you might develop feelings for your clients, but ethical norms have been established to guide your conduct.

This is common and most recommended advice to mental health patients since sometimes they might not deal with the issues alone. You might find yourself in a similar situation when you have so many assignments that require your attention and have no coping capacity. You can hire our professional psychology essay writers who can help you to organize your thoughts in a structured paper or offer you a custom case study. Take advantage of them to impress your professor!

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What Is a Case Study? | Definition, Examples & Methods

What Is a Case Study? | Definition, Examples & Methods

Published on May 8, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on November 20, 2023.

A case study is a detailed study of a specific subject, such as a person, group, place, event, organization, or phenomenon. Case studies are commonly used in social, educational, clinical, and business research.

A case study research design usually involves qualitative methods , but quantitative methods are sometimes also used. Case studies are good for describing , comparing, evaluating and understanding different aspects of a research problem .

When to do a case study, step 1: select a case, step 2: build a theoretical framework, step 3: collect your data, step 4: describe and analyze the case, other interesting articles.

A case study is an appropriate research design when you want to gain concrete, contextual, in-depth knowledge about a specific real-world subject. It allows you to explore the key characteristics, meanings, and implications of the case.

Case studies are often a good choice in a thesis or dissertation . They keep your project focused and manageable when you don’t have the time or resources to do large-scale research.

You might use just one complex case study where you explore a single subject in depth, or conduct multiple case studies to compare and illuminate different aspects of your research problem.

Case study examples
Research question	Case study
What are the ecological effects of wolf reintroduction?	Case study of wolf reintroduction in Yellowstone National Park
How do populist politicians use narratives about history to gain support?	Case studies of Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orbán and US president Donald Trump
How can teachers implement active learning strategies in mixed-level classrooms?	Case study of a local school that promotes active learning
What are the main advantages and disadvantages of wind farms for rural communities?	Case studies of three rural wind farm development projects in different parts of the country
How are viral marketing strategies changing the relationship between companies and consumers?	Case study of the iPhone X marketing campaign
How do experiences of work in the gig economy differ by gender, race and age?	Case studies of Deliveroo and Uber drivers in London

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Once you have developed your problem statement and research questions , you should be ready to choose the specific case that you want to focus on. A good case study should have the potential to:

Provide new or unexpected insights into the subject
Challenge or complicate existing assumptions and theories
Propose practical courses of action to resolve a problem
Open up new directions for future research

TipIf your research is more practical in nature and aims to simultaneously investigate an issue as you solve it, consider conducting action research instead.

Unlike quantitative or experimental research , a strong case study does not require a random or representative sample. In fact, case studies often deliberately focus on unusual, neglected, or outlying cases which may shed new light on the research problem.

Example of an outlying case studyIn the 1960s the town of Roseto, Pennsylvania was discovered to have extremely low rates of heart disease compared to the US average. It became an important case study for understanding previously neglected causes of heart disease.

However, you can also choose a more common or representative case to exemplify a particular category, experience or phenomenon.

Example of a representative case studyIn the 1920s, two sociologists used Muncie, Indiana as a case study of a typical American city that supposedly exemplified the changing culture of the US at the time.

While case studies focus more on concrete details than general theories, they should usually have some connection with theory in the field. This way the case study is not just an isolated description, but is integrated into existing knowledge about the topic. It might aim to:

Exemplify a theory by showing how it explains the case under investigation
Expand on a theory by uncovering new concepts and ideas that need to be incorporated
Challenge a theory by exploring an outlier case that doesn’t fit with established assumptions

To ensure that your analysis of the case has a solid academic grounding, you should conduct a literature review of sources related to the topic and develop a theoretical framework . This means identifying key concepts and theories to guide your analysis and interpretation.

There are many different research methods you can use to collect data on your subject. Case studies tend to focus on qualitative data using methods such as interviews , observations , and analysis of primary and secondary sources (e.g., newspaper articles, photographs, official records). Sometimes a case study will also collect quantitative data.

Example of a mixed methods case studyFor a case study of a wind farm development in a rural area, you could collect quantitative data on employment rates and business revenue, collect qualitative data on local people’s perceptions and experiences, and analyze local and national media coverage of the development.

The aim is to gain as thorough an understanding as possible of the case and its context.

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In writing up the case study, you need to bring together all the relevant aspects to give as complete a picture as possible of the subject.

How you report your findings depends on the type of research you are doing. Some case studies are structured like a standard scientific paper or thesis , with separate sections or chapters for the methods , results and discussion .

Others are written in a more narrative style, aiming to explore the case from various angles and analyze its meanings and implications (for example, by using textual analysis or discourse analysis ).

In all cases, though, make sure to give contextual details about the case, connect it back to the literature and theory, and discuss how it fits into wider patterns or debates.

If you want to know more about statistics , methodology , or research bias , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Normal distribution
Degrees of freedom
Null hypothesis
Discourse analysis
Control groups
Mixed methods research
Non-probability sampling
Quantitative research
Ecological validity

Research bias

Rosenthal effect
Implicit bias
Cognitive bias
Selection bias
Negativity bias
Status quo bias

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Psychology Case Study: Guide to Follow

By: Henrique Bertulino

If you’re studying psychology at the college or university, you’ll most likely deal with such an assignment as the case study . It is a common task for schools that combine theoretical education with the practice one. On the one hand, it requires a lot of time and effort, so many students don’t appreciate such assignments. On the other hand, it helps you develop the necessary skills to build a successful career.

Assignment Purposes

Cognitive-behavioral, psychoanalytic, interpretative phenomenological analysis, grounded theory, advantages of case studies, disadvantages of case studies, types of psychology case studies, quantitative research, qualitative research, identifying the key issues, describing the solution, where to look for information, college student with a sleep disorder, jill price's amazing memory abilities, the woman with suicidal thoughts, tell a story, use appropriate language, approach it as a challenge, don’t be biased, seek for help.

One thing you should understand is that there is nothing impossible. You may have never heard about this assignment before, but once you finish this article, you’ll be able to come up with a perfect paper. Or at least you’ll know that you may count on our support whenever you need it. If you don’t have enough time or desire to submit the case study on yourself, just rely on our professional authors.

What is The Psychology Case Study?

Let’s start with a case study definition . It is an in-depth investigation of an individual, group of people, community, or event. Typically, psychologists gather data from different sources and use some other methods for this purpose. This one is often used in clinical cases when it is not practical or even possible to conduct lab research.

Speaking about students, you may deal with real individuals, imagined individuals, characters from books, movies, TV shows, etc. It depends on the features of your educational program, as well as on your knowledge and experience. For example, first-year students may not be allowed to be real psychology patients. They can only observe the process and make notes. But if you have a particular background, you can define diagnosis and suggest your treatment.

Most students learn better from examples than from theoretical material. The real world is often different from the class, so case studies are a beneficial technique.

Case studies are used not in psychology only, they are also common for medical schools, law schools, business schools, etc. They can be used anywhere if the professors want students to apply their knowledge to real situations. Most case tasks require researchers to provide a solution to problems that can arise in their work routine. There is no one correct answer because different psychologists have different methods, strategies, approaches. The main objective is to teach bachelors of science how they can develop an action plan and decide.

Psychological Approaches You May Use

Using this approach, you focus on the person as a whole. It means you should look at one’s behavior not only as a therapist but through the eyes of the subject you study as well. This approach helps to evolve and put a treatment plan into place due to the patient’s self-image and feelings.

This approach is suitable for patients with mood, eating, and other disorders, e.g., schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Working on a case, the future therapist should consider the patient’s habits, thoughts, beliefs. Sometimes it is necessary to observe patient behavior during a particular period to understand how one reacts to different events, interacts with other people, etc.

Sigmund Freud developed this approach. He championed that the mind is often unconscious, and this part affects people’s behavior.

Adherents of this theory focus on individuals or groups of people and analyze how they make sense of some events and their personal significance.

Using this approach, you should first collect the data about the subject or events you study, and only then you integrate them into broader categories. Then you’re looking for a relationship between them to understand the issues better and develop a treatment.

The case method has a lot of advantages, both for instructors and students. It is an excellent opportunity to engage the class in real projects by abstracting from the theoretical questions. This assignment develops your skills in:

Problem-understanding and solving;
Analytical thinking;
Research methods using;
Handling with ambiguities;
Stress resistance.

The huge advantage is that students find case studies exciting. They spend years in the classroom, and now they have an opportunity to touch the real psychologist’s daily routine. It is a perfect chance to show yourself, to do something creative, and make your suggestions.

Although case studies have enough advantages, there are some limitations as well. Firstly, this tool lacks scientific rigor. You can’t use raw data only, and your subjective feeling may affect the final result. It is also challenging to replicate. Because you deal with a particular person or a group, other students may not receive the same effect as the other community even if one is using the same tools. A lot of things depend on your interpretation, not on the data as it is.

Besides, case studies take a lot of time and effort since you can’t just sit in front of your laptop working on the project. You need to meet people, communicate with them, to analyze a lot of information. And the last task is to prepare a well-structured text to organize your thoughts and provide the main insights.

These disadvantages show that case studies can’t be used as only a psychological approach. However, they are still handy for the community and educational purposes as well.

2 Essential Methods of Case Study

There are two main methods that you may use to submit a piece:

The prospective one is when you observe a person or a group of people to determine outcomes. For example, you want to understand how the disease progresses and gather a group to watch over it.
The retrospective tool is the one where you look at historical information. It means that you start with an outcome, e.g., a disease. You work your way backward to analyze the person’s life and determine risk factors that may affect the illnesses’ development.
Collective. Using this type, you study the behavior of the group of people in a particular setting.
Descriptive. It goes about observing the subjects and comparing them to the pre-existing theory.
Explanatory. This case paper type is often used for causal investigations. You study factors that may cause some things you’re interested in.
Exploratory. If you’re going to conduct further and more in-depth research, you use the exploratory case study to start with. It helps you to gather more data before you state your research questions and hypotheses.
Instrumental. It occurs when the person or group allows you to understand more than what was initially apparent.
Intrinsic. You may use this type when you have a personal interest in the case. For example, when you observe your relatives contribute to the psychological theory development.

4 Steps You Need to Write a Psychology Case Study

Working on your student’s assignments, try to understand your next steps. It will show you how much time you should devote to and where to start.

Before you start working on an assignment, you should construct an efficient methodology. You need to know how to gather the data, answer the research issue, and find trustworthy sources.

Defining the best strategy, you should think about these questions:

What issue do you want to address in your case study?
Who is your target audience?
Are you going to study an individual, a group, an organization?
Do you have a particular period to explore? Is this the current state? Maybe you want to explore some events that have changed over time?
Where is your research issue taking place?

You should know that there are two main types of research methods. You can follow one of them to prepare your psychology case study.

This type is focused more on quantity than on quality. You gather data and present it in the form of hard cold facts, stats analysis, numbers. This research approach requires you to deploy math frameworks to question the data quantity. There are also several sub-methods you may follow:

Survey. Researchers utilize polls of questions, questionnaires, interviews to understand how subjects behave in particular situations. You may use chat, email, phone, and other ways to conduct a successful survey.
Correlation. This quantitative research type is intended to test and analyze two variables and their interconnection. You may use it to understand an occurrence.
Experiment. This type is a platform for many studies. You have hypotheses, and you need to confirm it or to refute it.

The qualitative research has another direction. Your task is not just to provide the data you’ve gathered. You need to present it in detail. Your text will include reviews, interviews, opinions, and other sources you may use to support evidence.

There are also some sub-methods future psychologists should be familiar with:

Ethnographic. Working on research, you explore the particular culture, its features. Is there any motivation to keep it going? How this community affects the participants?
Grounded theory. This type is quite different from other research models. You already have data on a particular topic, and now you need to move towards developing the new concept.
Case study. Researchers define one target and focus on it. They collect data using various resources, including literature, concepts, theories, interviews, etc.

As you can see, the case study itself is a qualitative research tool. However, you may gather and analyze data using quantitative methods as well.

One of the essential steps of writing a case study is to explain the issue you’re going to research. It defines the purpose of the whole project and the scenario you’ll follow along the way.

If you can see various issues or challenges, write all of them down. Your task is to assess them and identify the most important ones. Try to describe each of them in a couple of sentences, providing their effect and consequences. You will see what matters and what you are interested in. Further, working on the issue, you should also explain the reasons for its occurrence. Remember that you have to address these issues within the real-life context.

The next step important for a good grade is the description of the possible solution. Now you know the roots and causes of the problem, so it's time to think about the hypotheses you had and their results. What worked out? What not? You should provide a detailed description to fulfill the purpose.

It is not enough just to write about the solution. A good case is intended to teach people something, to give them knowledge and insights. If you know the causes and reasons of the research issue, you should write about them. Other researchers may use your data for their projects. Besides, you need the analysis to understand your strong and weak sides. Working on this section, you’ll see that some explanations are evidence-based, while others are just your assumptions.

There are a lot of various sources that you can use to gather data about a person or a group. You can use one of these essential sources:

Archival records. You can use archives to find necessary name lists, survey records, census records, etc.
Documents. It goes about administrative notes, newspaper articles, letters, and other papers.
Interviews. It is one of the essential sources to gather information about individuals or groups. You can communicate with subjects, using different psychology questions to ask , such as survey-type or open-ended questions.
Direct observation. Researchers observe the subject in different settings, often in a natural one.
Participant observation. You can gather information serving as a participant in different events, observing the actions and outcomes.
Physical artifacts. You observe the subject in any way you may find tools, instruments, objects, and other artifacts useful for your research.

Ensure your sources are trustworthy because you can’t just copy information from the Facebook post or the email subscription. It is vital to use authorized journals, official notes, observations, and so on. Ask your professor where you can find the necessary information. One may provide you with access to secured databases.

Psychology's Famous Case Studies to Get Inspired By

A simple case search will help you find the most famous case studies that affected psychology as a science and provided researchers with powerful insights. We’ve compiled a list with some interesting cases for your inspiration.

Gerry was a regular 21-year-old college student with an outstanding academic performance. Everything was okay until Geery realized that he can’t sleep as usual. Thoughts did not leave his head during the nights. Suddenly Gerry began demanding his friends’ attention regardless of the time at the watch. He’d always been respectful, so such behavior wasn’t normal at all. But the further the worse. A couple of days later, the student said that his roommates were spying on him.

After visiting the counselor, Gerry was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy helped him to prevent relapse.

Jill Price has a diagnosis that many people could dream of. She has hyperthymesia, in other words, an incredible memory that stores many details of her life. Jill can easily remember what her dinner was like 20 years ago. But if you are in a hurry to learn how to acquire such a superpower, we will disappoint you. The patient did not feel happy at all. In addition to important information and pleasant moments in life, she remembers all the derogatory remarks and traumatic events in the smallest detail.

Jill Price is 54 years old now, and she is still involved in psychological case studies that try to understand her brain's characteristics. The gathered evidence points to a rare offshoot of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Jessica worked in a large hospital as a medical resident. She woke up on the wrong side of the evil one day, but she couldn’t shake it. Her favorite job seemed stupid and useless, and the previously responsible Jessica began to ignore her shifts simply. She has similar problems at home with her husband and children. One day she even found herself wishing she was dead. These thoughts appeared in her head more often, but the woman continued to convince her husband that nothing was wrong. Fortunately, she worked in a hospital, so her coworkers understood that it was not. They convinced their colleague to seek help. Jessica was diagnosed with a major depressive disorder.

A Fem More Case Study Tips to Succeed

Of course, the case study is primarily a psychology task that requires particular knowledge and experience. However, the final result depends on your writing skills, as well. And if you know how to write an essay , it will simplify the whole process. The case study also has a particular structure, requires you to formulate thoughts clear and understandable, attract readers’ attention in the introduction, and provide evidence-based facts. Here are some tips that will help you to come up with a great case study!

Though the case study is an academic assignment, it is a paper about someone’s life. And life is always a story. Think about the paper’s scenario using these questions:

When has everything started?
What were the first events?
How the patient felt?
What was the reaction of the surrounding?
Were there some confusing, funny, exciting events?
How did one ask for help?
What was the reason for conducting this study?
How have you developed the solution?
What are your significant insights?

Reading case study examples , you’ll see that they keep you on your toes. It is almost a book or a TV show, just for psychologists.

Writing a case study, you should consider your target audience all the time. If it is just an academic assignment, you may use the terms and expressions you use in the class. However, if you want to publish your paper, it is crucial to think about readers who are not as familiar with psychology science as you’re. When you’re writing that the patient has bipolar disorder, explain what it means. You can create a particular chapter with definitions and explanations, or use them exactly in the text. Is it dangerous? Which symptoms it has? Imagine that your readers know nothing and use appropriate language to explain your data.

The case study is a common task for different majors, not psychology only. For example, students who are pursuing a business degree, deal with it as well. Of course, they work under other circumstances, but the final goal is to understand the causes and reasons for some events.

You may take their approach to succeed with your paper. Imagine that you have some business goals, and your work defines whether you’ll get the profit. If you come up with a perfect solution, describing the case study, your readers will benefit from the job you’ve done.

Working with people, it is not so easy to forget about your emotions and personal opinion. Most psychologists have feelings for their patients, but particular ethical norms are developed to regulate the behavior.

As a student, you may have some difficulties with the moving part of the case study. Your work not with an object, but with a real person. It is vital to stay professional in the paper, to show evidence-based facts only, without biased content. Consult your professor or discuss this issue with fellow students if you need any advice.

In samples that we’ve used above, people asked for professional help since they could not solve the problem independently. You may find yourself in a similar situation when you have many assignments on different subjects and don’t know how to cope with all of them. You can always hire a professional author who will help you organize your thoughts in a structured paper or provide you with a custom case study. Use this opportunity to free yourself time and to impress your professor! And if you need to buy psychology paper online — you know where to go!

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COMMENTS

Case Study: Definition, Examples, Types, and How to Write
A case study is an in-depth study of one person, group, or event. In a case study, nearly every aspect of the subject's life and history is analyzed to seek patterns and causes of behavior. Case studies can be used in many different fields, including psychology, medicine, education, anthropology, political science, and social work.
Psychology Case Study Examples: A Deep Dive into Real-life Scenarios
One notable example is Freud's study on Little Hans. This case study explored a 5-year-old boy's fear of horses and related it back to Freud's theories about psychosexual stages. Another classic example is Genie Wiley (a pseudonym), a feral child who was subjected to severe social isolation during her early years.
Case study
Case #1 (Last Names A-F) Case Study Writing Assignment PSYC 170 (Abnormal Psychology) Note: The following instructions are taken verbatim from the syllabus. The case description and questions to be answered follow, on page 2. The rubric that will be used to grade these is posted on Blackboard—Please review it.
Case Study Research Method in Psychology
Case studies are in-depth investigations of a person, group, event, or community. Typically, data is gathered from various sources using several methods (e.g., observations & interviews). The case study research method originated in clinical medicine (the case history, i.e., the patient's personal history). In psychology, case studies are ...
How To Write a Psychology Case Study in 8 Steps (Plus Tips)
Here are four tips to consider while writing a psychology case study: Remember to use the rules of APA formatting. Use fictitious names instead of referring to the patient as a client. Refer to previous case studies to understand how to format and stylize your study. Proofread and revise your report before submitting it.
How to Write a Case Conceptualization: 10 Examples (+ PDF)
Sample #3: Conceptualization in a family therapy case. This 45-year-old African-American woman was initially referred for individual therapy for "rapid mood swings" and a tendency to become embroiled in family conflicts. Several sessions of family therapy also appear indicated, and her psychiatrist concurs.
How to Write a Good Case Study in Psychology (A Step-by-Step Guide)
The outcome is how things changed after the intervention or treatment was implemented. Step by step instructions on how to write an effective case study in Psychology. 1. Gain Knowledge About The Topic. To write a case study in psychology, you will need to do some research on the topic you are writing about.
28+ Case Study Examples
Psychology Case Study Examples . Case studies are a great way of investigating individuals with psychological abnormalities. This is why it is a very common assignment in psychology courses. By examining all the aspects of your subject's life, you discover the possible causes of exhibiting such behavior.
How to Write a Psychology Case Study in 8 Easy Steps
Step 1: Choose a Relevant Subject and its Topic. The first crucial step is selecting a subject. If it's Psychology, choose the appropriate Psychology case study topics. Choose an individual, group, event, or situation that offers valuable insights into psychological phenomena.
Case Study Psychology: A Comprehensive Writing Guide
Step 1: Gathering Information for Subject Profiling. To create a comprehensive psychology case study, the first crucial step is gathering all the necessary information to build a detailed profile of your subject. This profile forms the backbone of your study, offering a deeper understanding of the individual or situation you're examining.
How to Write a Case Study Assignment for Psychology
Case studies should have clear and understandable thoughts, attract the attention of the reader in the introduction section, and offer evidence-based facts. Tell a story. Even though your psychology case study is an academic assignment, it is usually paper about someone's life, and life is always a story.
What Is a Case Study?
Revised on November 20, 2023. A case study is a detailed study of a specific subject, such as a person, group, place, event, organization, or phenomenon. Case studies are commonly used in social, educational, clinical, and business research. A case study research design usually involves qualitative methods, but quantitative methods are ...
PDF Revising Case Study Assignment in Abnormal Psychology Undergraduate
case study assignment, which required students to read a vignette about a pretend individual struggling with various mental health symptoms and respond to questions ranging from diagnosis to treatment options. Implementation When I first taught Abnormal Psychology, I had students turn in three case studies as homework assignments.
PDF Case Study
PSY 111: Introduction to Psychology Learning Unit 10: Assignment Page 1 of 3 Case Study - Applying Psychological Perspectives Purpose: To examine, apply, and compare contemporary perspectives in psychology. Directions: After reading the case study below, define or explain the historical or contemporary psychological perspective. Then, apply each perspective to the case, determining how we ...
Prepare a Perfect Case Study Psychology to Impress Your Professor
Advantages of Case Studies. The case method has a lot of advantages, both for instructors and students. It is an excellent opportunity to engage the class in real projects by abstracting from the theoretical questions. This assignment develops your skills in: Problem-understanding and solving;
Case Study in Psychology
The case of Phineas Gage is perhaps one of the most prominent examples of a case study is used in psychology. In 1848, Phineas Gage was a railroad worker who experienced a brain injury when an ...
CEP 215
CEP 215 Introduction to Educational Psychology Case Study Assignment # Instructions: Read the following case study and then respond to the following questions. Refer to Chapters 1, 2, and 3 to provide supporting evidence for each of your answers. Please type and number your responses and review the rubric at the end of this document to be sure ...
Case study Assignment
Faculty of Health & Society - Psychology Assignment Brief. Module title: Psychology of Mental Health Module code: PSY Assignment code/title: AS2: Case Formulation Assessment weighting: 60% Submission date: 30/04/ Feedback date: 28/05/ Module co-ordinator/ tutor: Dr Evgenia Volkovyskaya Resit date: 11/06/ Word count (Maximum = 2, 500 words max )
Case Study Assignment Jeff (docx)
Case Study Assignment: Jeff 5 oppression based on their culture. Treatment Recommendations Key Issues for Treatment -Suicidal ideation/planning -Substance abuse - alcohol Recommendations for Individual Counseling After reviewing Jeff's case, there are some treatment recommendations I have for his individual counseling. Jeff has made it abundantly clear that he is a heavy drinker with no ...
Psychology 310
Psychology 310 - Assignment 1: Case Study. If you have a Study.com College Saver membership and are seeking college credit for this course, you must submit one case study paper and pass the ...
Case study (psychology)
Case study in psychology refers to the use of a descriptive research approach to obtain an in-depth analysis of a person, group, or phenomenon. A variety of techniques may be employed including personal interviews, direct-observation, psychometric tests, and archival records.In psychology case studies are most often used in clinical research to describe rare events and conditions, which ...
Case Study Assignment
Psychology and Social Work, Liberty University PSYC 255: Introduction to Research November 28th, 2022. Case Study. A case study method is the process of researching in detail, whether it be a person, a group of persons, or a specific topic. Example: Dogs.
Case Study Paper Assignment (Part 2)
Case Study: Paula Okafor Introduction Paulette "Paula" Okafor is a 26 year old, 3rd year, Clinical Psychology Psy Student at the University of Virginia. Paula has spent her life focused on school, invested in her academic aspirations for a large part of her life that she's had no time to develop any personal relationships including ...

What Is a Case Study?

What Types of Case Studies Are Out There?

At a Glance

What Are the Benefits and Limitations of Case Studies?

Case Study Examples

Section 1: A Case History

Section 2: Treatment Plan

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Psychology Case Study Examples: A Deep Dive into Real-life Scenarios

Understanding Psychology Case Studies

Importance of Case Studies in Psychology

Different Types of Psychology Case Studies

Exploring Real-Life Psychology Case Study Examples

How to Analyze a Psychology Case Study

Applying Lessons from Psychology Case Studies

Challenges and Critiques of Psychological Case Studies

Conclusion: The Impact of Case Studies in Understanding Human Behavior

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Types of Case Studies

Where Do You Find Data for a Case Study?

1. Primary sources

2. Secondary sources

3. Archival records

4. Organizational records

How do I Write a Case Study in Psychology?

1. Introduction

2. Case Presentation

3. Management and Outcome

4. Discussion

5. Additional Items

Limitations

Further Information

How to Write a Case Conceptualization: 10 Examples (+ PDF)

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How to write a case conceptualization: An outline

Sample #1: Conceptualization for CBT case

World’s Largest Positive Psychology Resource

Sample #2: Conceptualization for DBT case

Sample #3: Conceptualization in a family therapy case

Introduction to case conceptualization – Thomas Field

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How to Write a Good Case Study in Psychology (A Step-by-Step Guide)

Step by step instructions on how to write an effective case study in Psychology

1. Gain Knowledge About The Topic

2. Research the Individual or Event

3. Analyze The Information

4. Draft A Plan

5. Structure Your Work

6. Write The Case Study

7. Write a Theoretical Introduction

8. Describe How The Individual or Event Was Studied

9. Write a Conclusion

10. Edit And Proofread The Case Study

11. Submit It To The Appropriate Sources

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