Case study in psychology refers to the use of a descriptive research approach to obtain an in-depth analysis of a person, group, or phenomenon.
A variety of techniques may be employed including personal interviews, direct-observation, psychometric tests, and archival records.
In psychology case studies are most often used in clinical research to describe rare events and conditions, which contradict well established principles in the field of psychology.
Distinct advantages and disadvantages are associated with the case study in psychology.
One major advantage of the case study in psychology is the potential for the development of novel hypotheses for later testing.