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Kendra's Psychology Blog

By Kendra Van Wagner, About.com Guide to Psychology since 2005

How to Write a Psychology Case Study

Thursday October 23, 2008
Reader Question:
I have to do a case study on a psychology topic, but I'm not quite sure how they are set out. Any tips on how to write a case study?

At some point in your study of psychology, you may be required to write a case study. A case study is an in-depth analysis of a single person or group. Case studies are often used in clinical cases or in situations when lab research is not possible or practical. In undergraduate courses, these case studies are often based on a real individual, an imagined individual, or a character from a television show, film, or book.

The specific format for a case study can vary greatly. In some instances, your paper will focus solely on the individual of interest. Other possible requirements include citing relevant research and background information on a particular topic. Before you begin, ask your instructor for a detailed outline or grading rubric for your assignment. You can learn more in the following article on how to write a psychology case study.

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