Implementing a triangulation protocol in bereavement research: a methodological discussion

Triangulation is a comparative strategy for examining data that strengthens qualitative and multi-method research. Despite the benefits of triangulation noted in the research methods literature, few concrete models for operationalization of protocols exist. Lack of documentation of explicit triangulation procedures is especially true in the area of bereavement research. This article describes how an interdisciplinary research team implemented a triangulation protocol in a study of the needs of bereaved parents. Triangulation enabled the integration of diverse data sources, methods, and disciplinary perspectives. These processes yielded a more meaningful typology of bereaved parents' needs than would have otherwise been possible. Extending the use of triangulation will enhance multi-faceted understandings of bereavement.     

A statistical problem arising in ascertainment

In this paper, an alternative model is examined for the distribution arising out of ascertainment. The weighted beta-binomial is suggested for this purpose as it incorporates the variability in the parameter ø of the weighted binomial distribution. The latter distribution has been the model considered by Rao (1965, 1985) and Kocherlakota and Kocherlakota (1990). Techniques for separate families introduced in Kocherlakota and Kocherlakota (1986) are applied to demonstrate that the weighted beta-binomial model is more appropriate in this situation.     

Randomization tests for multiple regression

Four generic means of conducting randomization tests in the context of multiple regression are analysed. Based on their performance in traditional repeated samples, three of these are shown to be inappropriate or applicable only in special circumstances; their shortcomings are illustrated via Monte Carlo studies     

A Boy’s Journey: Public Sociology for in and Out of the Classroom

This essay is a response to Stein (2019; 2020) and his use of lived experience to tell the story of violence and the Holocaust. I discuss these works’ contributions to public sociology and teaching.     

Managing the deliberately mute

The contrast in communication styles and values between Gen-Xers, now mostly in their mid to late twenties, and forty- and fifty-somethings is obvious. Gen-Xers are focused on the assignment and the deadline; their goal is to do good work in a timely manner. But they are highly skeptical that enthusiasm has any influence on the outcome. When we question them about their taciturn manner, they all give us the same two reasons: They really don't care one way or the other and they're convinced that what they say doesn't matter anyhow. This may frustrate a manager charged with getting the buy-in or enthusiastic participation from the troops, but it's a fact. There are, however, ways to get Xers to talk--provided you really want their ideas and opinions and you acknowledge that you hear what they say. Here are the best techniques from those who successfully manage large numbers of the young, including young physicians: (1) Focus on what matters; (2) don't ask if you're not going to act on the feedback; (3) personalize your request for information; and (4) always do a worst case scenario when you need the buy-in.     

The importance of building alliances

This may come as a surprise to Gen-Xers, but on-the-job allies are a political necessity. Information and support from workplace alliances are vital to doing your job. Your peers, boss, subordinates, and even enemies, can and should be in your network of allies. How do you build alliances? It's accomplished by cultivating relationships based on mutual benefit and interest. Information and favors are traded on a quid pro quo basis. Your peers, subordinates, and boss have different needs but they share some goals with you. Goals are the common denominator. Consider the following ways to cultivate your network of allies: Be a reliable news source; offer feedback; be congenial; share expertise; consult; strive to be a role model; don't demand credit; don't wait for recognition; articulate your needs; share a hot idea; save face for someone; and connect people who can help each other.