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.
Title: An Application of Case Study Research in Understanding School Bullying at Thabela
High School
1. Introduction
Case study research is a powerful qualitative tool employed in the social sciences, including
criminology, psychology, and education. It offers a deep, contextual exploration of a specific
phenomenon within its real-life environment. This discussion applies the case study research
method to investigate a high-profile bullying incident at Thabela High School in Botha’s Hill,
Durban. The chosen case not only illustrates the prevalence of bullying but also highlights
broader systemic issues within the educational and social environment.
2. Key Concepts and Definitions
2.1 Case Study Research
According to Yin (2018), a case study is an in-depth investigation of a contemporary
phenomenon within its real-world context, particularly when the boundary between the subject
of study and the context is not clearly evident. It typically focuses on a single case or a small
number of cases and incorporates multiple sources of evidence.
2.2 Qualitative Research
Qualitative research refers to an interpretive, naturalistic approach to studying social
phenomena. It seeks to understand meanings, experiences, and views from the participants'
perspectives rather than relying on numerical data (Creswell & Poth, 2018). This approach is
well suited for exploring complex issues like bullying, which involve emotions, relationships,
and institutional culture.
2.3 School Bullying
School bullying, as defined by Olweus (1993), involves repeated aggressive behaviour among
school-aged children that includes a real or perceived power imbalance. Bullying may manifest
physically, verbally, socially, or through digital platforms (cyberbullying), often resulting in
severe psychological harm to victims.
3. Role of Case Study Research in Criminology
In criminology, the case study method is invaluable for unpacking the dynamics of deviant or
harmful behaviour. It allows for the exploration of behavioural patterns, contextual
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.
Title: An Application of Case Study Research in Understanding School Bullying at Thabela
High School
1. Introduction
Case study research is a powerful qualitative tool employed in the social sciences, including
criminology, psychology, and education. It offers a deep, contextual exploration of a specific
phenomenon within its real-life environment. This discussion applies the case study research
method to investigate a high-profile bullying incident at Thabela High School in Botha’s Hill,
Durban. The chosen case not only illustrates the prevalence of bullying but also highlights
broader systemic issues within the educational and social environment.
2. Key Concepts and Definitions
2.1 Case Study Research
According to Yin (2018), a case study is an in-depth investigation of a contemporary
phenomenon within its real-world context, particularly when the boundary between the subject
of study and the context is not clearly evident. It typically focuses on a single case or a small
number of cases and incorporates multiple sources of evidence.
2.2 Qualitative Research
Qualitative research refers to an interpretive, naturalistic approach to studying social
phenomena. It seeks to understand meanings, experiences, and views from the participants'
perspectives rather than relying on numerical data (Creswell & Poth, 2018). This approach is
well suited for exploring complex issues like bullying, which involve emotions, relationships,
and institutional culture.
2.3 School Bullying
School bullying, as defined by Olweus (1993), involves repeated aggressive behaviour among
school-aged children that includes a real or perceived power imbalance. Bullying may manifest
physically, verbally, socially, or through digital platforms (cyberbullying), often resulting in
severe psychological harm to victims.
3. Role of Case Study Research in Criminology
In criminology, the case study method is invaluable for unpacking the dynamics of deviant or
harmful behaviour. It allows for the exploration of behavioural patterns, contextual
