The Japanese Association of Qualitative Psychology was established in 2004 and, thanks to its enthusiastic members, has been growing ever since. The aim of the Association is to promote original studies to explore new areas and to develop new theories and methodologies. Indeed, use of qualitative research has spread both internationally and across diverse areas of studies. We aim to encourage qualitative studies not only in psychology but also in other domains such as sociology, education, philosophy, anthropology, linguistics, healthcare, social welfare, history, economics, and so on.
Mission
1) To develop theoretical studies for the new frontiers of qualitative research
The Association will develop original qualitative theories and methodologies for both psychology and interdisciplinary domains.
2) To create the interactive research environments
The Association will create the research environments in which qualitative researchers are able to engage in open and active discussions in pursuit of the development of original research.
3) To provide education about qualitative research and support member development
The Association will provide educational tools and support the mutual development of members to improve the quality of qualitative studies and teaching methods.
4) To conduct action research to address contemporary issues
The Association will conduct action research on current needs and will create methodologies that can be used to address the important issues of our times.
5) To provide public information about qualitative studies
The Association will develop communication tools to promote the public exchange of relevant information on both international and interdisciplinary levels.
Activities
1) Publication of two Journals
The Association publishes two journals. Japanese Journal of Qualitative Psychology addresses special topics and includes individual research papers. Qualitative Psychology Forums aims to facilitate interactions among members to promote the exchange of ideas and perspectives.
2) Annual conference
An annual conference is held in a different region every year, usually at a university. The conference theme, related to the features of the host region, is planned by the organizing committee. Conferences usually consist of lectures, symposia, workshops, poster presentations, public events, and so on.
3) Educational activities
The Continuing Education Committee organizes lectures, symposia, seminars, and workshops on a variety of themes to meet the educational needs of members. The Committee supports young members in their studies and provides education.
4) Promotion of qualitative research across diverse fields
The Association promotes the use of qualitative research in a variety of areas (e.g., education, child care, social welfare policy, local government, art, and economics). It creates environments in which members can improve activities in those fields, exchanging thoughts and perspectives with individuals working in diverse fields.
5) Informational activities
The home page of the Association provides information about qualitative psychology and interdisciplinary research that is accessible to everyone. Newsletters are published and delivered frequently to enable members to exchange information and ideas.