In the field of neglected tropical diseases (NTD), there is increasing emphasis on addressing the gap between the scientific efficacy of tools and their translation into different local contexts (1). Social science research can unpack the social inquiry necessary to support more sustainable interventions. To contribute to the rising need of social science research in NTDs, the ICHORDS Research Methods Series will outline the definition, methodology, and importance of relevant research methods in the NTD field. In this blog, we will specifically be focusing on In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) and providing a link to our associated infographic.
What is an In-Depth Interview (IDI)?
IDIs use individual interviews to explore views on an idea, program, or situation. Led by a trained facilitator, IDIs allow participants to provide detailed responses to questions asked. The is to aim to gain broader perspectives of a research topic by understanding issues from a participant’s perspective.
How has it been used within NTD?
Participant Experience
IDIs are used to understand participant experiences regarding NTD treatment. In many communities, NTD diagnosis is associated with stigma that causes psychological distress and social isolation. A study by Perere et al. revealed that males refused treatment for lymphatic filariasis due to stigma associated with hydrocoele, advancing the disease into severely debilitating conditions (2). Discussing these topics can be a sensitive matter, making the private and confidential environment of IDIs suitable for understanding how vulnerable and neglected populations experience disease and how to tailor interventions accordingly.
Detailed Responses
They are also helpful for acquiring in-depth responses from key stakeholders during program implementation. Individuals with detailed knowledge about community relations or project management can provide insight into bottleneck processes during NTD program adoption. Stakeholders can include donor organizations, international agencies, academic institutions, or local community members.
Why use it?
IDIs uncover social factors influencing an intervention’s effectiveness that is difficult to assess as an outsider. Interviews allow individuals to highlight what they believe to be most relevant, allowing interventions to be designed in a way that meets individual needs (3).
IDIs are preferable to focus group discussion when researchers are interested in a sensitive subject that people may be uncomfortable sharing in a group setting. They are also beneficial for acquiring detailed individual responses, which are relevant when interventions depend on isolated user experiences. However, individual interviews are more time-intensive to conduct, transcribe, and analyze than group discussions.
Studies using IDIs within the NTDs space
Neglected Patients with a Neglected Disease? A Qualitative Study of Lymphatic Filariasis
Neglected tropical diseases and disability – what is the link?
References
1. Krentel A, Gyapong M, Ogundahunsi O, Amuyunzu-Nyamongo M, McFarland DA. Ensuring no one is left behind: Urgent action required to address implementation challenges for NTD control and elimination. PLoS Negl Trop Dis [Internet]. 2018 Jun 7;12(6):e0006426–e0006426. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29879105
2. Perera M, Whitehead M, Molyneux D, Weerasooriya M, Gunatilleke G. Neglected Patients with a Neglected Disease? A Qualitative Study of Lymphatic Filariasis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis [Internet]. 2007 Nov 21;1(2):e128. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.00001283.
3. Christine Masong M, Ozano K, Tagne MS, Tchoffo MN, Ngang S, Thomson R, et al. Achieving equity in UHC interventions: who is left behind by neglected tropical disease programmes in Cameroon? Glob Health Action [Internet]. 2021 Jan 1;14(1):1886457. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33641612
Blog and Infographic created by: Jacie Liu
