Complete Thesis_double spaced abstract.pdf

A second criticism of non-quantitative case study research is that it is often difficult to
measure the causal factors in the exact same manner as they have previously been defined or in a
manner that will contribute to the literature and the validity of the findings (Geddes, 2003, 117).
In this case study the definitions used by previous researchers, especially those in Guatemala,
have been utilized. Similar techniques for measuring and classifying economic development,
state sponsored political violence and migration were employed throughout the study.
Availability and Reliability of Migration Data
There are several significant challenges to researching migration in Central and Latin
America, the most critical is the scarcity of migration data. However, where data does exist there
are serious issues with the classification of migration data, the reliability of available data and the
undernumeration of available data. The scarcity of data and the challenges of the available data
are discussed in detail below. Despite these challenges, it is possible to create and execute a
research design that utilizes the available data and contributes to the migration literature by
testing existing theories.
There are several national and international agencies and groups responsible for
collecting and reporting migration data within Central and Latin America. Data is collected at
different time intervals through national censuses, border and immigration control offices,
surveys at the local and national level, and specialized international and local agencies that
operate throughout Central and Latin America. Each method of collection presents certain
benefits and problems. The inter-state migration literature predominantly draws on data from
national censuses, border control offices, and demographic projections from agencies within
international organizations. While the intra-state migration literature does make use of national
censuses, it also relies on surveys and questionnaires completed by governmental and non-
governmental organizations at the national and local levels.
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