Keywords

family therapy, research, Delphi technique

Abstract

Dear Reader,

We would like to ask your help in a research study of considerable significance for family therapy researchers and clinicians. The present study is designed to compare and contrast the various research methodologies in the field by examine the opinions of prominent family therapists. The completion of the three questionnaires that will make up this study will require a total of no more than 1 1/2 hours of your time. In appreciation of your participation, a complete summary of the findings and a list of the other panelists will be sent to you.

This study will employ the Delphi technique, a widely used method of gathering group consensus from a panel of knowledgeable persons. The Delphi technique assures anonymity of responses, reduces group pressures for conformity, and takes less time for panelists than traditional methods of pooling opinion. As an expert in the field of family therapy, your participation in the present research will be greatly appreciated.

With your help, this research will help clarify various research methodologies and their role in the family therapy field. We look forward to working with you in the weeks to come.

Respectfully,

Linda Stone Fish, PhD

Dean M. Busby, PhD

Original Publication Citation

Stone Fish, L., & Busby, D. M. (2005). The delphi technique. In D. H. Sprenkle and F. P. Piercy (Eds.), Research methods in family therapy, (2nd ed.). New York: Guilford.