Thematic Analysis: A Comprehensive Guide

Developed and adapted by renowned authors Virginia Braun and Victoria Clarke, thematic analysis (TA) is a highly popular qualitative data analytic technique in psychology, social sciences, and health sciences. Building on the success of Braun & Clarke’s 2006 paper, which has garnered over 100,000 citations on Google Scholar, this book serves as the definitive guide to TA.

Contextualization of Thematic Analysis

Thematic analysis is deeply rooted in the context of qualitative research. It is essential to understand the broader terrain of qualitative research to effectively apply TA. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the contextualization of TA, helping researchers understand how to integrate this technique into their research design.

Developing Themes with Thematic Analysis

One of the core aspects of thematic analysis is the development of themes from the data. This process involves identifying, coding, and categorizing the data to uncover underlying themes. The book offers practical guidance on how to develop themes, ensuring that researchers can effectively identify meaningful patterns in their data.

Writing Thematic Analysis Reports

Once themes have been developed, the next step is to write a comprehensive report. This book provides valuable insights into how to structure and write a TA report, including tips on clarity, coherence, and engaging the reader. It also emphasizes the importance of reflexivity in the reporting process.

Reflexive Thematic Analysis

Reflexivity is a crucial aspect of thematic analysis, as it involves the researcher’s self-awareness and acknowledgment of their role in the research process. This book explores the concept of reflexive TA, guiding researchers on how to incorporate their own experiences and biases into the analysis for a more nuanced understanding of the data.

Common Questions and Developments in Thematic Analysis

The book addresses common questions surrounding TA, such as its relationship to other qualitative methods, the role of theory in TA, and the challenges of analyzing different types of data. Additionally, it discusses recent developments in the field, ensuring that researchers are up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in TA.

About the Authors

Virginia Braun is a Professor in the School of Psychology at The University of Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand. Victoria Clarke is an Associate Professor in Qualitative and Critical Psychology in the Department of Social Sciences at the University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol. Together, they have developed and refined the thematic analysis approach, making it one of the most widely used qualitative data analytic techniques in the social sciences.

Book Details

Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd
Edition: 1st edition (November 13, 2021)
Language: English
Pages: 376
ISBN-10: 1473953243
ISBN-13: 978-1473953246