The term ‘idiographic’ comes from the Greek for ‘private’ or ‘own’. So, it refers to efforts to specify and focus on an individual, rather than establishing universal laws about human thought and behaviour — though generalisations may be made. It offers meaning and context to psychological enquiry. Participant numbers in idiographic research are small, which allows several individuals (or a unit such as a family) to be studied in great depth. In some cases, a single person is adequate — or even preferable.
Qualitative research is very often idiographic. This is because it tends to be holistic. Phenomena such as mental health issues can be studied in the context of the individual’s life history and current situation (holistic), rather than concentrating purely on their symptoms (reductionist). This involves collecting a large amount of data from just a few people, for extensive and rigorous analysis. For example, understanding the context of behaviour can be essential for the work of psychologists who aim to improve the mental health and wellbeing of service users.
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