Abstract:

This study aims to demonstrate that the critical incident technique is a relevant and trustworthy research method for future research in work and organizational psychology, by reflecting on and establishing standards for its reliable application. Through a reflexive review of applications of the critical incident technique in the work and organizational psychology literature, we aim to develop a directional space for the use of different types of critical incident techniques. In doing so, we seek to establish quality and methodological focus where the approach currently lacks epistemological coherence, as current practice reflects a variety of critical incident technique applications, shaped by multiple interpretations that have emerged since its original introduction by Flanagan (1954) and by broader shifts in qualitative research paradigms. Although this evolution has broadened the scope of the method, it has also led to ambiguity in its application to the point that its credibility and trustworthiness are under pressure. By developing a directional space, the proposed reflexive review aims to provide a basis that will enable researchers to continue to apply the critical incident technique in future work and organizational psychology research.

Please choose your submission type: Developmental Paper

Primary Track: Research Methodology

Keywords: Epistemological issues and theoretical conceptualizations  ;Assessing the quality of business and management research  ;Reflexivity in business and management research 

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Prof Melanie De Ruiter