Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Title

Journal of Advanced Nursing

Volume

78

Issue

1

First Page

e21

Last Page

e28

Publisher

Wiley

School

School of Nursing and Midwifery

RAS ID

39728

Comments

This is an Authors Accepted Manuscript version of an article published by Wiley, at https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.15053

Nguyen, T. N. M., Whitehead, L., Dermody, G., & Saunders, R. (2022). The use of theory in qualitative research: Challenges, development of a framework and exemplar. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 78(1), e21-e28.

https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.15053

Abstract

Background:

Whilst theoretical grounding is considered important for sound research methodology, consensus on the application of theory in qualitative research remains elusive. Novice researchers may experience challenges in applying theory in qualitative research and these may contribute to the under-use, over-reliance or inappropriate application of theory. Practical guidance on how theory can inform and guide the conduct of qualitative research is needed.

Purpose:

The purpose of this paper was to propose a framework for the application of theory in qualitative research and provide an exemplar.

Methods:

The Theoretical Application Framework for Qualitative Studies (TAF-QS) was developed from the synthesis of existing literature and the authors' own experience of the application of theory.

Results:

The TAF-QS encourages researchers to articulate which theoretical framework or conceptional framework they are drawing on and how this will be applied by reflecting on the purpose and the context of the study.

Conclusion:

The TAF-QS provides support for researchers to explore how theory can be applied and how to achieve this in qualitative research.

Tweetable abstract:

The use of theory in qualitative research.

DOI

10.1111/jan.15053

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