Using thematic analysis in psychology

Braun, Virginia; Clarke, Victoria

Abstract

Thematic analysis is a poorly demarcated, rarely acknowledged, yet widely used qualitative analytic method within psychology. In this paper, we argue that it offers an accessible and theoretically flexible approach to analysing qualitative data. We outline what thematic analysis is, locating it in relation to other qualitative analytic methods that search for themes or patterns, and in relation to different epistemological and ontological positions. We then provide clear guidelines to those wanting to start thematic analysis, or conduct it in a more deliberate and rigorous way, and consider potential pitfalls in conducting thematic analysis. Finally, we outline the disadvantages and advantages of thematic analysis. We conclude by advocating thematic analysis as a useful and flexible method for qualitative research in and beyond psychology. © 2006 Edward Arnold (Publishers) Ltd.

Citation

Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77-101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Dec 1, 2006
• Deposit Date: Nov 23, 2010
• Publicly Available Date: May 3, 2016
• Journal: Qualitative Research in Psychology
• Print ISSN: 1478-0887
• Electronic ISSN: 1478-0895
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 3
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 77-101
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
• Keywords: thematic analysis, qualitative psychology, patterns, epistemology, flexibility
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1043060
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
• Additional Information: Additional Information : This is an electronic version of an article published in "Braun, Virginia and Clarke, Victoria (2006) Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3 (2). pp. 77-101". Qualitative Research in Psychology is available online at: http://www.informaworld.com/smpp/content~db=all~content=a795127197~frm=titlelink.