Doing Quantitative Research with Statistics

Abstract

This chapter resonates with the overarching aim of the book in terms of gaining knowledge about the different significant research approaches. The chapter continues along the aim to support therapists to engage in discussions and critique, and to approach previously familiar ideas from new angles to contribute with support in the field of mental health and emotional wellbeing. The chapter suggests that having a basic understanding of statistics is important for counsellors and therapists. The emphasis on evidence-based practice and studies of therapeutic efficacy is underpinned by statistical information, although for many practitioners unfamiliar with statistical concepts and statistical tests the idea of statistics can seem daunting. The chapter suggests that for therapists there is often a lack of basic and easy to assimilate information about rudimentary statistical concepts and examples which show the relevance and application of statistics to counselling and psychotherapy. This chapter explains how some basic statistical concepts can be understood and applied by therapeutic practitioners with a view to promoting their own working knowledge of statistics.