Sigmund Koch has suggested that psychology is not and cannot be a coherent science in terms of the philosophy and methods of the physical sciences and that the term science cannot be properly applied to psychology, esthetics, creativity, or the domains of the humanities. Starting from this premise, the present author asks whether the research methods of science are not really transferrable to the study of living persons and interpersonal relationships? Or, is another kind of research method needed to study the infinite variety and complexity of human experience. The case study method is suggested. This method broadens professional competence, has contributed to the professional literature, and can be undertaken without elaborate research programs. Examples of the latter are noted. A pilot study using the case study approach to investigate the psycho-social aspects of the pregnancy experiences of adolescents, and attempts at and subsequent success in obtaining funding for a full scale project are described. This study and several others noted combine service and research programs in psychiatric social work. They promise to be fruitful. (CK)