Diary Method in Sociology

The article positions the diary method as a relevant tool for qualitative sociological research. It analyzes its theoretical foundations, key characteristics (regularity, personal nature, and synchronicity), evolution from personal records to a scientific instrument, and main types (unsolicited and solicited diaries). Methodological aspects of applying solicited diaries are examined in detail: their variations (time-based/event-based, degree of structure, media formats), advantages (proximity to lived experience, reduced recall bias, access to routines, flexibility) and challenges (respondent burden, instruction design, ethical considerations). Particular attention is given to time-use diaries as the optimal instrument for studying temporal expenditures, specifically parental time. As an illustrative application, a comprehensive methodology for studying the resocialization of mothers after maternity leave is proposed. This methodology combines an adapted digital time-use diary (via a Telegram bot) with narrative and diary interviews.