Qualitative Methods in the Narrative Policy Framework: Oregon Ballot Measure 97

Abstract

This case study details a qualitative application of the Narrative Policy Framework (NPF) with the aim of providing guidance and insight on how to conduct qualitative Narrative Policy Framework studies. Our case study focuses on Oregon Measure 97 in the United States, a contentious citizen-initiated ballot measure in the 2016 Oregon General Election. We leverage the Narrative Policy Framework’s theoretical concepts by using semi-structured interviews to examine the stories used in support of and opposition to Measure 97. While detailing the research design, we pay special attention to the nuances of the research process, honing in on critical decisions and our thought processes related to the research design and methodology—Specifically, we try to provide a glimpse into the research process that is often not illuminated in academic publications. In so doing, we articulate how we were able to identify and describe the dominant Measure 97 policy narratives used by stakeholders, elaborate on the decisions made regarding analysis and coding, and describe how our findings were used to develop an experimental survey design testing the persuasiveness of the two dominant narratives identified through our interviews. Finally, we address some of the practicalities encountered during the research process and articulate the pros and cons of using Narrative Policy Framework for qualitative research.

locked icon

Sign in to access this content

Get a 30 day FREE TRIAL

  • Watch videos from a variety of sources bringing classroom topics to life
  • Read modern, diverse business cases
  • Explore hundreds of books and reference titles