This fully revised and updated popular text successfully bridges the gap between theory and methods in social research, clearly illuminating these essential components for understanding the dynamics of social relations. The book is divided into two parts, with part one examining the issues and perspectives in social research and part two setting out the methods and processes. Updates to this edition include:A new chapter on case study research A new concluding chapterLinks to additional websites and IT applications that are integrated throughout the bookUpdated experiential examples and scenariosMore international examplesThe clear writing style, chapter summaries, questions for reflection and signposts to further readings continue to make this book the ideal companion to social research for students across the social sciences. In addition, it will be recognised as an invaluable source of reference for those practising and teaching social research who wish to keep abreast of key developments in the field.With contributions from Beth Perry (University of Salford) and Carole Sutton (University of Plymouth).