Studying turning points in labour market trajectories – benefits of a panel-based mixed methods design

Turning points describe a fundamental change of direction in life course trajectory. However, they are challenging to study because their temporal extension, the complexity processes at stake during those critical sequences, and fact that individuals’ interpretation as well more objective changes social status position play important roles turning points. Panel-based mixed methods designs suited address challenges. In-depth interview data enable researchers understand interpretations offer detailed understanding on multiple levels domains. The panel survey allow glimpse into respondents’ past, which can serve resource for further case-based information. At same time, continuing collection prospective waves yields futures be analysed against background told history. In this paper, we draw from labour market trajectories 23 descendants immigrants Germany, based Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP). aim paper is show potential combining retrospective interviews account subjective dimensions Combining qualitative does not reaching ‘right’ each case but obtaining multifaceted picture lives, help avoid misinterpretation under-theorisation.