2. The modern emphasis on this concept resulted in large part from
the work of a German philosopher, Edmund Husserl.
Phenomenology literally means the study of phenomena. It is a
way of describing something that exists as part of the world in
which we live. Phenomena may be events, situations, experiences
or concepts.
Phenomenology is the study of people’s perception of the world
(as opposed to what really is in the world).
The focus is thus on understanding from the perspective of the
person or persons being studied.
3. We are surrounded by many phenomena, which we are aware
of but not fully understand. Our lack of understanding of these
phenomena may exist because the phenomenon has not been
overtly described and explained or our understanding of the
impact it makes may be unclear.
For example, back pain. Correlation studies may tell us about
the types of people who experience back pain and the apparent
causes. But what is it actually like to live with back pain?
What are the effects on peoples’ lives? What problems does it
cause?
4. A phenomenological study might explore, for example, the
effect that back pain has on sufferers’ relationships with other
people by describing the strain it can cause in marriages or the
effect on children of having a disabled parent.
Phenomenological research begins with the acknowledgement
that there is a gap in our understanding and that clarification or
illumination will be of benefit.
Phenomenological research will not necessarily provide
definitive explanations but it does raise awareness and
increases insight.
