Gaining access

the long version

A guide for social scientists who have developed a research design and are eager to start their first research project, only to discover that no one will talk to them. Political scientists and psychologists offer many access stories, through which they develop a general theory of access that recognizes it as a process of building relationships. They advise researchers to identify those who can help them gain access, learn the art of self-presentation, and nurture relationships once they are established.