CMY3708
Assignment 1
Unique No:877397
Due 17 August 2025
, QUESTION 1: Provide a detailed discussion on case study research as a qualitative
research method by applying the school bullying case study above. (25 marks)
Title: An Application of Case Study Research in Understanding School Bullying at
Thabela High School
1. Introduction
Case study research is a widely recognised qualitative method used for investigating
intricate social issues within their natural settings. In the context of criminology, this
approach provides valuable insights into behaviours and interactions that occur in real-
life environments, such as the persistent issue of school bullying. This paper examines
the utility of case study research in analysing bullying incidents at Thabela High School,
located in Durban, drawing on a notable real-world incident that drew public attention.
2. Explanation of Key Terms
2.1 Case Study Research
Yin (2018) defines a case study as a form of empirical inquiry aimed at examining a
current phenomenon in its real-world context, particularly when the lines between the
subject and its environment are blurred.
2.2 Qualitative Research
Qualitative research involves a methodical and interpretive process aimed at
understanding social phenomena through non-statistical means. It often relies on
interviews, observations, and text analysis to explore human behaviours and
experiences (Creswell & Poth, 2018).
2.3 School Bullying
Olweus (1993) describes school bullying as repeated, intentional acts of aggression
among students where a power imbalance is evident. These actions can be physical,
Assignment 1
Unique No:877397
Due 17 August 2025
, QUESTION 1: Provide a detailed discussion on case study research as a qualitative
research method by applying the school bullying case study above. (25 marks)
Title: An Application of Case Study Research in Understanding School Bullying at
Thabela High School
1. Introduction
Case study research is a widely recognised qualitative method used for investigating
intricate social issues within their natural settings. In the context of criminology, this
approach provides valuable insights into behaviours and interactions that occur in real-
life environments, such as the persistent issue of school bullying. This paper examines
the utility of case study research in analysing bullying incidents at Thabela High School,
located in Durban, drawing on a notable real-world incident that drew public attention.
2. Explanation of Key Terms
2.1 Case Study Research
Yin (2018) defines a case study as a form of empirical inquiry aimed at examining a
current phenomenon in its real-world context, particularly when the lines between the
subject and its environment are blurred.
2.2 Qualitative Research
Qualitative research involves a methodical and interpretive process aimed at
understanding social phenomena through non-statistical means. It often relies on
interviews, observations, and text analysis to explore human behaviours and
experiences (Creswell & Poth, 2018).
2.3 School Bullying
Olweus (1993) describes school bullying as repeated, intentional acts of aggression
among students where a power imbalance is evident. These actions can be physical,
