thematic analysis- u w e research repository（专题分析- u w e研究库）.docVIP

Using thematic analysis in psychology Virginia Braun * Victoria ClarkeDepartment of Psychology Faculty of Applied SciencesThe University of Auckland The University of the West of England Private Bag 92019 Frenchay CampusAuckland BristolNew Zealand BS16 1QY v.braun@auckland.ac.nz Victoria.clarke@uwe.ac.uk Ph: +64 9 3737599 x 87561 +44 117 3282176 Fax: +64 9 3737450 +44 117 3282904 MS Word Length (incl. references, notes, tables and figures): 13510 Using thematic analysis in psychology 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. Keywords: thematic analysis, qualitative psychology, patterns, epistemology, flexibility Author Biographical Notes Virginia Braun is a senior lecturer in the Department of Psychology at The University of Auckland, where she teaches, supervises and conducts qualitative research. Her research interests are primarily focused around women’s health, gendered bodies, and sex and sexuality, and the intersections between these areas. She is currently working on projects related to sex in long-term relationships, female genital cosmetic surgery, and ‘the social context of STI transmission’. Victoria Clarke is a senior lecture in