Using thematic analysis in psychology

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Abstract

Thematic analysis is a poorly demarcated, rarely acknowledged, yet widely used qualitative analytic method within psychology. In this paper, we argue that it offers an accessible and theoretically flexible approach to analysing qualitative data. We outline what thematic analysis is, locating it in relation to other qualitative analytic methods that search for themes or patterns, and in relation to different epistemological and ontological positions. We then provide clear guidelines to those wanting to start thematic analysis, or conduct it in a more deliberate and rigorous way, and consider potential pitfalls in conducting thematic analysis. Finally, we outline the disadvantages and advantages of thematic analysis. We conclude by advocating thematic analysis as a useful and flexible method for qualitative research in and beyond psychology.

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Authors: Virginia Braun iD (University of Auckland); Victoria Clarke iD (University of the West of England)
Published in: Qualitative Research in Psychology, vol. 3, no. 2, pp. 77-101
Publication date:01/01/2006
Publisher:Taylor & Francis
Document type:Article
Language:English
DOI: 10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
ISSN:1478-0887, 1478-0895
Open access: Open access Hybrid: open article in a subscription journal – Qualitative Research in Psychology (license: OTHER-OA, published version)
Cited by:193,381
Subjects:
Qualitative Research Methods and Applications (Social Sciences > Social Sciences > Education)
Qualitative Research Methods and Ethics (Social Sciences > Social Sciences > Sociology and Political Science)
Focus Groups and Qualitative Methods (Social Sciences > Social Sciences > Sociology and Political Science)
thematic analysis, qualitative data analysis, epistemology, ontology, research rigor, methodological pitfalls, methodological recommendations
Identifiers: OpenAlex W1979290264

Central index data: OpenAlex (CC0 license).

Summary:Thematic analysis is a poorly demarcated, rarely acknowledged, yet widely used qualitative analytic method within psychology. In this paper, we argue that it offers an accessible and theoretically flexible approach to analysing qualitative data. We outline what thematic analysis is, locating it in relation to other qualitative analytic methods that search for themes or patterns, and in relation to different epistemological and ontological positions. We then provide clear guidelines to those wanting to start thematic analysis, or conduct it in a more deliberate and rigorous way, and consider potential pitfalls in conducting thematic analysis. Finally, we outline the disadvantages and advantages of thematic analysis. We conclude by advocating thematic analysis as a useful and flexible method for qualitative research in and beyond psychology.
ISSN:1478-0887
1478-0895
DOI:10.1191/1478088706qp063oa