In this lucid introductory text, Andy Alaszewski considers the analysis of diaries as a distinctive research technique in its own right. The timely emergence of Using Diaries for Social Research recognizes the increased interest in and relevance of diary methodology within social research teaching.

Andy Alaszewski is an Emeritus Professor at the University of Kent. He studied social science at the University of Cambridge graduating with a BA degree in social anthropology and a PhD in social and political sciences. He is an applied social scientist who has managed a research unit. He has researched individual experiences of illness and disability and the nature of risk in health and social care. He is the founding editor of the international journal, Health, Risk & Society. His publications on qualitative research methods include Using Diaries for Social Research (SAGE, 2006).

Introduction
The Development and Use of Diaries
Researching Diaries
Getting Started
Finding Diarists and Diaries
Collecting the Data
Diaries, Guidelines and Support
Analyzing Diaries
Numbers, Content and Structure
Conclusion
Exploiting the Potential of Research Diaries