scholarly journals A Brief Discussion and Application of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis in the Field of Health Science and Public Health

2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 123 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kai Hong Tang ◽  
Luis Miguel Dos Santos

For a significantly long time, the field of health science and public health has relied considerably on quantitative and experimental evidence to support knowledge. Researchers in the field of social science and public health promotion advocate that qualitative research methodologies and IPA could be a useful tool to understand the inner world and perception for patients with particular illness and background. Unlike quantitative research studies, qualitative research studies do not seek statistical and experimental answers for client healing and operational activities but how and why illness influences the life of patients. The purpose of qualitative research study with a particular lens of interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) tends to describe a certain phenomenon or social problem by explaining the subject of study. The purpose of this study is to introduce the applications of IPA and summarize the two literature reviews with the application of IPA in the fields of nursing education and public health. The results of this study aim to provide a guideline for potential public health and nursing educators to employ IPA and other related qualitative research methodologies to capture and reform the current teaching curriculum and the rapidly changing society in the health science field.

Author(s):  
Abayomi Alase

As a research methodology, qualitative research method infuses an added advantage to the exploratory capability that researchers need to explore and investigate their research studies. Qualitative methodology allows researchers to advance and apply their interpersonal and subjectivity skills to their research exploratory processes. However, in a study with an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach, the advantageous elements of the study quadruple because of the bonding relationship that the approach allows for the researchers to develop with their research participants. Furthermore, as a qualitative research approach, IPA gives researchers the best opportunity to understand the innermost deliberation of the ‘lived experiences’ of research participants. As an approach that is ‘participant-oriented’, interpretative phenomenological analysis approach allows the interviewees (research participants) to express themselves and their ‘lived experience’ stories the way they see fit without any distortion and/or prosecution. Therefore, utilizing the IPA approach in a qualitative research study reiterates the fact that its main objective and essence are to explore the ‘lived experiences’ of the research participants and allow them to narrate the research findings through their ‘lived experiences’. As such, this paper discusses the historical background of phenomenology as both a theory and a qualitative research approach, an approach that has transitioned into an interpretative analytical tradition. Furthermore, as a resource tool to novice qualitative researchers, this paper provides a step-by-step comprehensive guide to help prepare and equip researchers with ways to utilize and apply the IPA approach in their qualitative research studies.  More importantly, this paper also provides an advanced in-depth analysis and usability application for the IPA approach in a qualitatively conducted research study. As such, this paper completely contrasted itself from many books and articles that are written with the premise of providing useful and in-depth information on the subject-matter (phenomenology, as a qualitative approach).


2004 ◽  
Vol 63 (4) ◽  
pp. 647-653 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephanie Fade

The present paper introduces interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) as a framework for analysing qualitative research data collected for public health nutrition and dietetic research studies. The theoretical roots of IPA have been set out briefly in order to help researchers decide whether the approach is relevant for them and their particular research questions. IPA can be used to analyse data from one-to-one interviews in order to develop ‘thick descriptions’ that may help illuminate human experience. IPA can also be used to develop theories and/or models, which could help inform policy. The main body of the paper describes the analytical techniques and procedures used to achieve both outcomes in a practical way, using examples from the author's own research. In the following paper Krueger's methods for analysing focus group data are set out for comparison. It is hoped that these papers will empower researchers with little experience of qualitative research to develop confidence with qualitative data analysis. In addition, it is hoped that the material will stimulate debate amongst more experienced qualitative researchers from a public health or dietetic background.


2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 205510291986063
Author(s):  
Eleanor Phillips ◽  
Stephanie Archer ◽  
Jane Montague ◽  
Anish Bali

There is little qualitative research exploring non-cancer gynaecology patients’ experiences of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols. Seven women participated in audio-recorded interviews, discussing their experiences of enhanced recovery after surgery for gynaecological surgery. Data were transcribed and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Three themes were identified: meeting informational needs, taking control of pain, and mobilising when feeling fragile. Control emerged as a key element throughout the themes and was supported by provision of factual information. While participants were generally satisfied with their experience, topics such as concerns about analgesic use, the informal role of staff in mobilisation, and the expressed desire for more experiential information for participants require further research.


Author(s):  
Danielle Hitch ◽  
Fiona Pazsa ◽  
Alison Qvist

While obesity is recognized as a key global public health issue, there has been no research to date on the perceptions of care for people with this condition held by individuals in positions of organizational power. The aim of this study was therefore to describe the perceptions and experiences of clinical leaders and managers of providing care to inpatients with obesity at a metropolitan public health service. This study applied an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach to qualitative research, conducting interviews with 17 participants. Their perceptions of care for inpatients with obesity encompassed both their personal understanding as an individual, and their observations about the organizational, patient and carer perspectives. Three overall themes were identified: (1) the problem of inpatients with obesity, (2) inpatients with obesity as sources of risk and (3) personal and professional perceptions of inpatients with obesity. While clinical leaders and managers were aware of the potential impact of stigma and weight bias on care given to this cohort, elements of implicit bias, stereotyping, “othering” and ambivalence were frequently present in the data. Ongoing efforts to improve care for patients with obesity must therefore include efforts to address perceptions and attitudes at all organisational levels of the workforce.


2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 116-121 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lynn M. Cuthbertson

AbstractIntroduction:This paper is a methodological reflection on the use of interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) utilised in the context of a qualitative research project that explored perceptions and experiences of the journey to radiographer advanced practice.Methods and materials:A two-phase qualitative research explored the perceptions and experiences. Phase 1 reviewed reflective diaries (n = 12) kept during the educational phase of the practitioner journeys. Phase 2 included one-to-one, semi-structured interviews (n = 6) which were recorded, transcribed verbatim and reviewed using the IPA six-stage thematic analysis for practitioners embedded in the advanced practice role.Findings:Key themes arising from reflective diary analysis informed the interview content; and following interview transcription, data immersion and IPA, 12 emergent sub-themes generated 3 superordinate themes.Discussion:Theoretical perspectives and application of the methodology are discussed. The phenomenological and interpretative qualities of IPA have the potential to provide unique and valuable insights into lived experiences of individuals. It is hoped that this researchers’ reflections are transferrable for those interested in employing a qualitative methodology for radiotherapy and oncology research.Conclusion:Therapeutic radiographers work within rapidly changing environments from technological, treatment and care perspectives. With continued development and change, the impact of research utilising an IPA methodology may allow exploration of perceptions and experiences from a range of key stakeholders with the potential to increase the research base.


Author(s):  
Danielle Hitch ◽  
Fiona Pazsa ◽  
Alison Qvist

While obesity is recognized as a key global public health issue, there has been no research to date on the perceptions of care for people with this condition held by individuals in positions of organizational power. The aim of this study was therefore to describe the perceptions and experiences of clinical leaders and managers of providing care to inpatients with obesity at a metropolitan public health service. This study applied an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach to qualitative research, conducting interviews with 17 participants. Their perceptions of care for inpatients with obesity encompassed both their personal understanding as an individual, and their observations about the organizational, patient and carer perspectives. Three overall themes were identified: 1) The problem of inpatients with obesity, 2) Inpatients with obesity as sources of risk and 3) Personal and professional perceptions of inpatients with obesity. While clinical leaders and managers were aware of potential impact of stigma and weight bias on the care given to this cohort, elements of implicit bias, stereotyping, ‘othering’ and ambivalence were frequently present in the data. Ongoing efforts to improve care for patients with obesity must therefore include efforts to address perceptions and attitudes at all organisational levels of the workforce.


Author(s):  
Robin Cooper ◽  
Anne Fleisher ◽  
Fatima Cotton

This paper describes a phenomenological study in which the authors explored students’ experiences learning qualitative research in a variety of academic fields. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with six participants from various academic fields who had completed at least one post-secondary-school-level qualitative research course and who were not students of the researchers. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), the researchers identified five primary themes representing the lived experience and meaning found in the participants’ experience of learning qualitative research: (a) a variety of feelings are experienced, (b) a pivotal experience serves as a catalyst in the learning process, (c) the central role of story, (d) active learning, and (e) relating learning to prior knowledge. The findings both support and contribute new aspects to the knowledge of this experience. The results also point to “building connections” as the essence of the phenomenon of learning qualitative research.


2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Imam Faisal Hamzah ◽  
Zaldhi Yusuf Akbar ◽  
Gisella Arnis Grafiyana

Education in Indonesia, especially higher education institutions, has a role to build interaction between religious adherents. How is this experience of tolerance in religiously based higher education institutions where the majority of students and staff are religious according to the institution. One of the largest religious-based higher education networks in Indonesia is the Muhammadiyah Universities or Perguruan Tinggi Muhammadiyah (PTM) network. Muhammadiyah as one of the largest Islamic organizations in Indonesia which has a network of higher education spread across various parts of Indonesia where students studying have diverse religious backgrounds. This study aimed to examine the dynamics of social identity in the experience of non-Moslem students at Muhammadiyah College. This research uses qualitative research methods using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Six participants, Christian, Catholic, Hindu, and Buddhist from four Muhammadiyah College in the province of Central Java - Indonesia, were interviewed and analyzed to obtain core themes. The results of this study produced five superordinate themes, namely the influence of the environment, personal characteristics, perceptions of the religion adopted, experience as a Muhammadiyah College Student, and perceptions of Islam and Muhammadiyah. The conclusion of this study shows the psychological dynamics of non-Muslim students shape the perception of Islam itself as a religion, also Muhammadiyah as an Islamic organization.


2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nining Wuri Lestari ◽  
Setyawati Soeharto ◽  
Dwi Windarwati

Background: Caring for people with post-pasung (post seclusion and restraint of patient) mental disorders can provide special experience for families who act as caregivers. Objective: To explore family experiences in rehabilitating people with post-pasung mental disorders in Trenggalek Regency. Methods: This research is a qualitative research with an interpretive phenomenological approach. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews using semi-structured interview guidelines. Participants in this study were twelve in number who treated people with post-pasung mental disorders in Trenggalek Regency. Results: Analysis of data using IPA (Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis), found eight themes, namely having compassion for patients, having the responsibility of caring for patients, repaying the kindness of patients and others who have helped, having the hope that patients can recover, feel the need to supervise the independence of patients, realize the condition of mental patients, resigned to accept, thankful that the patient can improve and upset. Conclusion: Family is a determinant of the success of rehabilitation in people with post-pasung mental disorders. Family compassion and attention support the patient's recovery. The family hopes that the patient can recover and be independent in self-care, take medicine and work so that it does not depend on the family. This study produced eight themes and answered the research objectives.


2018 ◽  
Vol 32 (2) ◽  
pp. 105-110 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lucy Dindoyal

This essay, based on a qualitative research project undertaken by the author while training at Roehampton University, explores the profound impact motherhood can have on the work of a music therapist. Motivated by the close parallels between the roles of mother and therapist as described in psychodynamic theory, the study involved three interviews with music therapist-mothers, and used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to analyse the data. Three superordinate themes emerged: Conflict and Growth; Drawing from Motherhood ‘Toolkit’; and Therapist Boundaries. Findings highlighted the multifaceted nature of the participants’ experiences, revealing both the positive and negative impact being a mother has on the work of a music therapist and the complex ways in which these roles intertwined with each other. During the research process, a broader picture emerged, placing the participants’ experiences within the context of Western culture’s idealised expectations of motherhood, which appeared to exert a powerful influence. It also drew attention to the limitations inherent in the ‘maternal metaphor’ which parallels the roles of mother and therapist, questioning its gender-specificity and the impact this has on music therapist-mothers. This small study provides a starting point for discussion regarding the challenges music therapist-mothers – as well as music therapists who are not mothers – face in a profession in which women make up the majority of the workforce.


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