Setting the Standard for LGBTQ+ Safety Research
At the International LGBTQ+ Safety Foundation (IQSF), we employ rigorous methodological approaches to ensure our research is accurate, reliable, and actionable. Our methodology combines quantitative and qualitative research techniques, ethical considerations, and peer review processes to produce high-quality data that informs policy and practice.
This page outlines our core research methodologies, data collection techniques, analysis methods, and quality assurance processes. We believe in transparency about our methods to build trust with communities, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
Research Framework Overview
Our research framework integrates multiple methodological approaches to provide comprehensive insights into LGBTQ+ safety issues globally. This integrated approach allows us to triangulate findings and develop nuanced understandings of complex social phenomena.
Quantitative Research
Statistical analysis of large datasets to identify patterns, trends, and correlations in LGBTQ+ safety indicators across different regions and demographics.
Qualitative Research
In-depth interviews, focus groups, and case studies to understand lived experiences, cultural contexts, and nuanced aspects of LGBTQ+ safety issues.
Mixed Methods
Integration of quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide comprehensive insights and validate findings through methodological triangulation.
Quantitative Research Methodologies
Survey Research
Our survey research employs rigorous sampling techniques to ensure representative data collection across diverse populations. We utilize both probability and non-probability sampling methods depending on research objectives and contextual constraints.
Sampling Techniques
- Random Sampling: Used for general population studies to ensure statistical representativeness
- Stratified Sampling: Ensures adequate representation of key demographic subgroups
- Respondent-Driven Sampling: Specialized technique for reaching hidden populations
- Time-Location Sampling: Used to reach populations in specific venues or locations
Survey Design Principles
- Culturally Responsive Design: Questions adapted to local contexts and languages
- Trauma-Informed Approach: Sensitive questioning techniques to minimize potential harm
- Cognitive Testing: Ensures questions are understood as intended across diverse populations
- Multi-Modal Administration: Online, phone, and in-person options to maximize accessibility
Sample Size Determination
We calculate optimal sample sizes based on statistical power analysis to ensure reliable detection of meaningful effects. Our standard approach aims for:
Confidence Level
95%
Margin of Error
±3-5%
Statistical Power
0.8+
Effect Size
d > 0.3
Try our sample size calculator to determine appropriate sample sizes for different research scenarios:
Statistical Analysis Methods
Our analytical approach employs a range of statistical techniques appropriate to research questions and data structures. All analyses are conducted using validated statistical software and follow established methodological protocols.
Descriptive Statistics
- Frequency distributions and cross-tabulations
- Measures of central tendency and dispersion
- Data visualization techniques
Inferential Statistics
- Hypothesis testing (t-tests, ANOVA, chi-square)
- Correlation and regression analyses
- Multivariate analyses
Advanced Statistical Methods
- Structural equation modeling
- Multilevel modeling for nested data
- Time series analysis for longitudinal data
- Propensity score matching for causal inference
Data Visualization
Qualitative Research Methodologies
Qualitative Approaches
Our qualitative research provides rich, contextual insights into the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities. We employ multiple methodological approaches to capture diverse perspectives and narratives.
In-Depth Interviews
Semi-structured interviews with key informants and community members to explore personal experiences, perceptions, and insights.
- Typically 60-90 minutes in duration
- Conducted in participant's preferred language
- Audio-recorded with permission and transcribed verbatim
Focus Group Discussions
Facilitated group discussions to explore shared experiences, community perspectives, and social dynamics.
- 6-10 participants per group
- Carefully composed to ensure psychological safety
- Structured to encourage equal participation
Ethnographic Research
Immersive observation and participation in community contexts to understand cultural practices, social dynamics, and lived realities.
- Extended engagement in field settings
- Detailed field notes and reflexive journaling
- Collaborative interpretation with community members
Participatory Action Research
Collaborative research approach that actively involves community members as co-researchers in all stages of the research process.
- Community-driven research questions
- Capacity building and skill transfer
- Action-oriented outcomes for community benefit
Qualitative Analysis Methods
Our analytical approach to qualitative data employs rigorous coding and interpretation techniques to identify patterns, themes, and insights.
Thematic Analysis
Systematic identification and interpretation of patterns and themes within qualitative data.
Grounded Theory
Iterative approach to develop theoretical explanations grounded in empirical data.
Discourse Analysis
Examination of language use and communication patterns to understand social constructions.
Analysis Depth:
Enable Intersectional Analysis:
Mixed Methods Integration
Integrated Research Design
Our mixed methods approach combines quantitative and qualitative methodologies to provide comprehensive insights into complex social phenomena. This integration allows us to triangulate findings and develop nuanced understandings of LGBTQ+ safety issues.
Sequential Design
One method precedes and informs the other, allowing for deeper exploration of initial findings.
Example Application:
Survey data identifies geographic hotspots of safety concerns, followed by in-depth interviews to understand contextual factors.
Concurrent Design
Quantitative and qualitative data are collected simultaneously and integrated during analysis.
Example Application:
Surveys and focus groups conducted in parallel to provide complementary perspectives on policy effectiveness.
Embedded Design
One method is nested within the framework of the other to address different aspects of research questions.
Example Application:
Open-ended questions embedded within large-scale surveys to capture nuanced experiences alongside statistical trends.
Integration Techniques
We employ systematic approaches to integrate quantitative and qualitative findings throughout the research process:
Data Transformation
Converting qualitative data into quantitative data (quantitizing) or quantitative data into qualitative data (qualitizing) to facilitate integrated analysis.
Triangulation
Comparing findings from different methodological approaches to identify convergence, complementarity, or divergence in results.
Joint Displays
Visual representations that bring together quantitative and qualitative data to illustrate relationships and patterns across methodologies.
Narrative Integration
Weaving together statistical findings and qualitative insights to create coherent, comprehensive explanations of complex phenomena.
Example of Mixed Methods Integration
Ethical Considerations
Research Ethics Framework
Our research adheres to the highest ethical standards, with particular attention to the unique vulnerabilities and needs of LGBTQ+ populations across diverse global contexts. All research protocols undergo rigorous ethical review before implementation.
Core Ethical Principles
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Respect for Autonomy
Ensuring voluntary participation through informed consent processes that are culturally appropriate and accessible.
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Beneficence
Maximizing potential benefits to participants and communities while minimizing potential harms.
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Justice
Ensuring fair distribution of research benefits and burdens, with particular attention to marginalized populations.
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Respect for Communities
Engaging with communities as partners in research, respecting cultural norms and local knowledge.
Special Ethical Considerations
Privacy and Confidentiality
Enhanced protections for sensitive data, with particular attention to contexts where LGBTQ+ identity may pose legal or social risks:
- Data anonymization and de-identification protocols
- Secure data storage and transmission systems
- Careful consideration of data sharing and reporting practices
Safety and Security
Protocols to protect the physical and psychological safety of participants and researchers:
- Risk assessment and mitigation strategies
- Trauma-informed research practices
- Referral networks for support services
Ethical Review Process
Multi-Level Review
All research protocols undergo multiple levels of ethical review
- Internal IQSF Ethics Committee
- External Institutional Review Boards
- Community Advisory Boards
- Local Ethics Committees in Research Locations
Informed Consent Process
Our informed consent procedures are designed to ensure that participants fully understand the research purpose, procedures, risks, benefits, and their rights before agreeing to participate.
Linguistic Accessibility
Consent materials translated into local languages and verified through back-translation.
Comprehension Verification
Interactive processes to ensure participants understand key aspects of research before consenting.
Ongoing Consent
Continuous process that allows participants to withdraw at any point without consequences.
Quality Assurance Processes
Ensuring Research Rigor
We implement comprehensive quality assurance processes throughout the research lifecycle to ensure methodological rigor, data integrity, and analytical validity.
Methodological Quality
Quantitative Research
Qualitative Research
Quality Control Measures
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Research Team Training
Comprehensive training programs for all research personnel, including cultural competency, methodological skills, and ethical research practices.
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Pilot Testing
Rigorous testing of all research instruments and protocols before full implementation to identify and address potential issues.
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Data Quality Monitoring
Ongoing monitoring of data collection processes with real-time quality checks and feedback mechanisms.
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Independent Verification
External validation of key research processes and findings by independent experts and community representatives.
Peer Review Process
All IQSF research undergoes rigorous peer review to ensure methodological soundness, analytical validity, and ethical integrity before publication or dissemination.
Internal Review
Initial review by IQSF methodological experts not directly involved in the research
Community Review
Assessment by community representatives to ensure relevance and cultural appropriateness
External Academic Review
Blind review by independent academic experts in relevant fields
Policy Expert Review
Assessment by policy experts to ensure practical applicability of findings
Research Application Examples
Case Studies
The following examples illustrate how our methodological approaches are applied to address specific research questions related to LGBTQ+ safety worldwide.
Global Safety Index Development
A mixed-methods approach to develop and validate a comprehensive index measuring LGBTQ+ safety across multiple dimensions and geographic contexts.
Methodological Approach
- Phase 1: Qualitative expert interviews to identify key safety dimensions
- Phase 2: Quantitative indicator development and statistical validation
- Phase 3: Focus groups to assess cultural relevance and interpretability
- Phase 4: Pilot testing and refinement across diverse global contexts
Key Outcomes
- Validated index with 5 dimensions and 27 indicators
- Implementation across 120+ countries
- Adoption by international policy organizations
Policy Impact Assessment
Evaluating the impact of anti-discrimination legislation on LGBTQ+ safety outcomes in urban environments across different regions.
Methodological Approach
- Phase 1: Quasi-experimental design comparing cities with and without protective legislation
- Phase 2: Longitudinal survey data collection before and after policy implementation
- Phase 3: In-depth interviews with community members and policy implementers
- Phase 4: Economic analysis of policy implementation costs and benefits
Key Outcomes
- Evidence of 23% reduction in reported discrimination incidents
- Identification of key implementation factors affecting policy success
- Development of policy implementation toolkit for municipal governments
Research Resources
Methodological Tools and Resources
IQSF provides a range of methodological resources to support high-quality research on LGBTQ+ safety issues. These resources are freely available to researchers, policymakers, and community organizations.
Research Guides
Research Instruments
Collaborate on Research
Interested in learning more about our methodologies or collaborating on research? Our team of methodological experts is available to provide guidance and support.
Contact Our Research Team
Research Consultation Services
IQSF offers methodological consultation services to researchers, organizations, and policymakers working on LGBTQ+ safety issues.
Research Design Consultation
Expert guidance on developing rigorous, ethical research designs appropriate to your research questions and context.
Methodological Training
Customized training programs on specific methodological approaches and techniques for your research team.
Data Analysis Support
Assistance with analytical approaches, statistical techniques, and interpretation of research findings.
Ethics Review
Expert review of research protocols to ensure ethical integrity and protection of vulnerable populations.