In dyadic interviews, two participants interact in response to open-ended research questions. There are few precedents for using dyadic interviews as a technique for qualitative research. We introduce this method largely in comparison to focus groups, because both represent forms of interactive interviewing. We do not, however, view dyadic interviews as miniature focus groups, and treat them as generating their own opportunities and issues. To illustrate the nature of dyadic interviewing, we present summaries of three studies using this method. In the first study, we used dyadic interviews and photovoice techniques to examine experiences of people with early-stage dementia. In the second study, we explored the experiences of staff who provided services to elderly housing residents. In the third study, we examined barriers and facilitators to substance abuse treatment among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Hawaii. We conclude with a discussion of directions for future research using dyadic interviews.

Focus groups are a qualitative method of data collection, which uses interaction among a group of research participants to generate information around topics determined by the researcher. While much has been written on how to design and conduct focus groups, few publications have explicitly addressed issues relevant to gerontological research. This entry thus discuss focus groups as a general methodological choice, while highlighting critical issues in the use of focus groups with older adults.