Background: The focus of this discussion centres on the theory and practice of psychoanalytically informed interviewing, and its application in nursing research.Aim: To examine the relationship between the framing of the psychoanalytic concept of free association in the contexts of qualitative research interviewing, clinical psychoanalysis, and psychoanalytically orientated psychotherapy.Discussion: Free association is a core concept in Hollway and Jefferson's (2000, 2013) 'Free Association Narrative Interview Method'an approach that is well-known amongst researchers in the United Kingdom who are interested in making use of psychoanalytic ideas in qualitative psycho-social research.
Conclusion:Differences in the contexts of research, clinical psychoanalysis and psychotherapy should be carefully considered to avoid makeshift integrations of clinical concepts.
Implications:The free association narrative interview method is an attractive approach for nursing researchers interested in the application of psychoanalytic ideas. However, researchers should carefully reflect on the meanings of the clinical ideas and terminology they use.