Mixed methods in health psychology: theoretical and practical considerations of the third paradigm.

This article has two purposes: to examine why mixed methods is a legitimate approach particularly well suited to health psychology; and to describe the challenges inherent in conducting mixed methods research. First, arguments justifying the status of mixed methods as a third paradigm alongside solely quantitative and qualitative frameworks are discussed. Second, a qualitatively driven model of mixed methods is illustrated using examples from a research programme exploring the psychosocial impact of a rare, genetic skin disorder. The flexibility of a mixed methods approach enables the researcher to be responsive to a range of issues, but it is important the approach is used thoughtfully and appropriately.