Mixed methods in International Relations: exploratory study of Brazilian research

Abstract

This research investigates the application of mixed methods in International Relations studies in Brazil. The guiding question is: what are the main applications of mixed methods in Brazilian research on International Relations? The general objective is to explore these possibilities, focusing on national academia. The specific objectives are to identify and characterize the studies that have adopted mixed methods in International Relations research in Brazil, analyzing the frequency of use of this approach and the methodological strategies employed; to examine the techniques used for data collection and analysis in the studies reviewed, highlighting the predominant methods, their applications, and combinations in the context of International Relations research; and to assess the methodological limitations present in the reviewed studies, as well as explore opportunities for expanding and improving the use of mixed methods in the field. Methodologically, this study is qualitative and exploratory in nature. Data collection was based on a systematic literature review conducted through the CAPES Journal Portal, with analysis carried out in January 2024. The searches employed keywords defined by the Brazilian Association of International Relations (ABRI), reflecting key themes in the field. The inclusion criteria encompassed scientific articles published in journals classified as A4 or higher in the field of Political Science and International Relations (CPRI) during the 2017-2020 four-year period, according to the classification available on the Sucupira platform as of January 2024. The results corroborate the initial hypothesis of a methodological gap in the field, revealing low adherence to mixed methods despite their potential to enhance research within the national context.