Using the Enhanced Critical Incident Technique in Counselling Psychology Research

Authors

  • Lee D. Butterfield Adler School of Professional Psychology
  • Asa-Sophia T. Maglio Adler School of Professional Psychology
  • William A. Borgen University of British Columbia
  • Norman E. Amundson University of British Columbia

Keywords:

Critical Incident Technique, Counselling Psychology, Qualitative Research, Enhanced Critical Incident Technique

Abstract

This article describes an effective approach to using the Enhanced Critical Incident Technique (ECIT) research method based on Flanagan’s (1954) Critical Incident Technique (CIT). It begins with an overview of the CIT, how to decide if it is the appropriate methodology to use, then using a recent CIT study as an example discusses Flanagan’s five steps for conducting a CIT study: determining the activity’s aim; setting plans, specifications, and criteria for the information to be obtained; collecting data; analyzing the data; and reporting the findings. Nine credibility checks, developed to increase the rigor and credibility of the ECIT, are described.

Author Biographies

Lee D. Butterfield, Adler School of Professional Psychology

Vancouver Campus Core Faculty Registered Psychologist

Asa-Sophia T. Maglio, Adler School of Professional Psychology

Vancouver Campus Core Faculty

William A. Borgen, University of British Columbia

Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology and Special Education Professor Registered Psychologist

Norman E. Amundson, University of British Columbia

Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology and Special Education Professor

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Published

2009-11-29

How to Cite

Butterfield, L. D., Maglio, A.-S. T., Borgen, W. A., & Amundson, N. E. (2009). Using the Enhanced Critical Incident Technique in Counselling Psychology Research. Canadian Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy, 43(4). Retrieved from https://dev.journalhosting.ucalgary.ca/index.php/rcc/article/view/58863

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Section

Articles/ Articles