Abstract
Diary studies are a widely used research method, particularly the method is useful for instances when it is crucial to gain a deep understanding of context-specific experiences over time (Saunders et al., 2023). Diaries capture instances, activities and events that, when considered collectively, shape perceptions and attitudes towards the observed phenomenon and which would otherwise remain unnoticed. As suggested by Hayers (2018) research diary allows participants to reflect deeply on their experiences within a safe space to express themselves.
Since sensitive topics are often challenging to access, resulting in a limited number of participants, this study examines the use of participant diaries for obtaining rich, in-depth insights. It discusses key design considerations, such as duration, frequency, structure, format, and participant selection, highlighting that aligning these elements with participants’ habitual behaviours and environments helps mitigate the risk of drop-out.