Interpretive phenomenological methodologists in nursing: A critical analysis and comparison

Abstract

Phenomenology is one of the most popular qualitative research methodologies used in nursing research. Although interpretive phenomenology is often a logical choice to address the concerns of nursing, the vast number of methods of phenomenology means choosing an appropriate method can be daunting, especially for novice researchers. It is critical that nurse researchers select a phenomenological method that fits the research problem and the skill and world view of the researcher; doing so will result in a research experience that resonates with and excites the researcher. The interpretive phenomenological methodologies of Benner, Munhall, and Conroy each offer unique methods of phenomenological inquiry. However, to date, we are not aware of any literature that explores and compares the methodological approaches of these nurses. In this paper, the origins and influence of phenomenology as both a philosophy and methodology on nurse researchers will be explored, followed by a critical analysis and comparison of these three nurses. By highlighting the distinctive differences and attributes of each method, this paper provides an analysis and comparison of the approaches of these prominent nurses. In doing so, we aim to aid the researcher in their methodological selection, thereby resulting in a successful and rewarding research endeavor.

Concerns of Women Choosing Community Birth During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

“…The researchers framed and conducted this study using interpretive phenomenology, which is both a philosophy and methodology that seeks to understand phenomena from the perspective of individuals’ lived experiences 6,7 . Interpretive phenomenology recognizes that individuals make choices within the boundaries of their lifeworld , or context, and their experiences occur in dialogue and interpretation with that lifeworld 6,7 . Because the main goal of the study was to identify findings that could be used to improve clinical practice, we selected Benner's interpretive phenomenology method for practitioner‐researchers 8 .…”

“…Because qualitative researchers are emmeshed in their research process and dialogue with participants, they can never be wholly unbiased 9 . Researchers inevitably structure and analyze their inquiry based on their expertise, lived experiences, and understanding of relevant theory and literature 6,7 . To improve credibility and transparency, qualitative researchers must provide information about their background, as well as the specific choices made and actions taken during the entire research process 9 …”

Lived Experiences for Supportive Care Needs of Women with Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Phenomenological Study

“…This approach aims to clarify common meanings and practices of daily life lived experiences (Willis et al, 2016). According to this approach, physical sensations, feelings, and thoughts are closely linked and concurrently experienced (Burns & Peacock, 2019). In addition, this approach contributes to the production of direct and simple answers to the questions in accordance with the purpose of the study (Sandelowski, 2010).…”

Understanding the holistic experiences of living with a kidney transplant: an interpretative phenomenological study (protocol)

“…This study will include a qualitative methodology underpinned by Heideggerian phenomenology which focuses on interpreting and understanding the meaning of lived experiences [15,16].…”