Theoretical and Methodological Aspects of Life History Approach in Sociology

Sa？etak Although for a long time many researchers tended to focus on quantitative methods and statistical procedures, as well as certain qualitative methods and data sources, over the past years numerous authors have been talking about a growing interest in the life history approach. Its significant beginnings are noted in sociology. Nevertheless, the field of sociology in Croatia still shows no significant interest in the theoretical and methodological discussions as well as the use of life history. Depending on the interests of researchers, life history can be observed through different perspectives, as a theoretical and methodological framework, but also as a research method. It allows different ways of in-depth documentation of individual stories within the social context over a certain period and is suitable for exploring a wide spectrum of phenomena, which points to its methodological power. Like other qualitative research methods, the life history approach faces issues related to its reflexive considerations regarding research design, and other specific methodological and ethical issues. On the other hand, its methodological and research benefits in researching various social phenomena indicate the necessity to reconsider the role of the life history approach in contemporary sociological methodology