Qualitative thematic analysis based on descriptive phenomenology

TLDR

Descriptive phenomenology provides ontological and epistemological foundations for analyzing lived experiences, addressing the need for comprehensible and valid methods in nursing and midwifery qualitative research. The paper aims to discuss how to understand and undertake thematic analysis based on descriptive phenomenology. The authors outline methodological principles grounded in phenomenological philosophy, discuss achieving scientific rigour and validity, and present a discursive framework for conducting thematic analysis. The article advances thematic analysis by offering a detailed description of how to conduct it and explaining methodological principles that guide the process and enhance validity.

Abstract

Abstract Aim The aim of this paper was to discuss how to understand and undertake thematic analysis based on descriptive phenomenology. Methodological principles to guide the process of analysis are offered grounded on phenomenological philosophy. This is further discussed in relation to how scientific rigour and validity can be achieved. Design This is a discursive article on thematic analysis based on descriptive phenomenology. Results This paper takes thematic analysis based on a descriptive phenomenological tradition forward and provides a useful description on how to undertake the analysis. Ontological and epistemological foundations of descriptive phenomenology are outlined. Methodological principles are explained to guide the process of analysis, as well as help to understand validity and rigour. Researchers and students in nursing and midwifery conducting qualitative research need comprehensible and valid methods to analyse the meaning of lived experiences and organize data in meaningful ways.