Using the grid elaboration method to explore year 7 and 8 perceptions of sleep
Further reading
Abstract
This research aims to answer the following research question: What do Year 7 and 8 pupils have to say about their experiences of sleep?
There is worldwide concern about the reduced quantity and quality of sleep in adolescent populations. Sleep is frequently raised by schools and families during consultations with Educational Psychologists. Years 7 and 8 in UK schools represent a period in which biological factors (changed circadian rhythms, onset of puberty) and psycho-social factors associated with transition to secondary school and early adolescence combine to impact on sleep. There is little research seeking adolescent voice in connection with sleep.
Eight pupils in Year 7 and 8 were interviewed about sleep using the Grid Elaboration Method. This interview tool was used to ask participants to write or draw their first four associations with sleep. The participants were then asked to elaborate on each association in turn using summarising, parroting and ‘tell me more’ techniques until there was nothing further to say for each association. No preprepared interview questions were included.
Data was analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis and five themes were identified: ‘Exploring the Strangeness of Sleep’ ‘My Personal Relationship with Sleep’ ‘Being Alone at Bedtime’ ‘Family Influence on Sleep’ and ‘Environmental Influences on Sleep’. Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory and Erikson’s Psychosocial theory of development were used to discuss the findings.
It is recommended that Educational Psychologists consider using the Grid Elaboration Method as a means of eliciting adolescents’ views and perceptions about sleep.
