La investigación en psicología y el uso de casos: aspectos metodológicos y éticos

This work exposes some advances and conclusions obtained in the project of research “Designs of qualitative research in Psychology (part I): characterization and integration of methodological and ethical aspects of the study of case/s” (2015-2016) and its future deepening in the project “Designs of research in Psychology (part II ): analysis exploratory-descriptive on studies of case/s” (2017-2018), at the Universidad Nacional de La Plata. It also includes the results that have been achieved in the Beca de Estimulo a las Vocaciones Cientificas (Consejo Interuniversitario Nacional-Universidad Nacional de La Plata), with specific applications to research in psychoanalysis. The study of case/s is frequently used in the social sciences and humanities -within which Psychology is included- but the exposition of the methodological and ethical aspects necessary for a suitable analysis of its function in the process of an inquiry scientific is not usual. Our purpose is to present and to problematize their benefits and difficulties for a better methodological and ethical characterization. It retakes some methodological controversies of the case/s study in social science and it focuses in its uses in different areas related to the psychology: Psychoanalysis, Evolutionary and Developmental Psychology, Neuropsychology, and Psycho-educational researches. Regarding ethical considerations, it is important to establish that research with humans involves specific situations where not should be dealt with the investigated phenomenon as a mere instrument of interest to science. It is exemplified by using case studies in psychoanalysis, concluding that it is essential to guarantee the respect for the subjects rights, taking into account international codes; but, also, supporting a thoughtful practice and careful attention to the vulnerable side/face of the investigated participants.