The demography of a Thai village : methodological considerations and substantive conclusions from field study in a central plains community

Abstract

Demographic studies in the developing world have been largely devoid of historical or cultural content. To redress this omission this study was undertaken as an exploration of alternative and additional methods for conducting demographic research. Such quantitative data collection instruments as a genealogical census and a life history survey matrix were used in combination with the qualitative techniques of participant - observation , informant interviews, and case studies. These various research techniques were incorporated into the field study design most commonly associated with anthropology.