title: An overview of three different approaches to the interpretation of qualitative data. Part 1: Theoretical issues.
abstract: In this paper, the first of two, Helena Priest, Paula Roberts and Leslie Woods discuss the essential features and methods inherent within three approaches to the interpretation of qualitative data. An overview of three methodologies commonly used in nursing and healthcare research is presented: grounded theory, qualitative content analysis and narrative analysis. The paper considers the philosophical bases of the three methods and the principles inherent within each analytical approach. Key stages and steps are presented and described.
authors.affiliation: Keele University, Staffordshire, England.
authors.forename: Helena
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Priest
authors.forename: Paula
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Roberts
authors.forename: Leslie
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Woods
mesh_terms: D000043:Abstracting and Indexing; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D005086:Existentialism; D006694:Holistic Health; D006808:Humanism; D006801:Humans; D016294:Models, Nursing; D033262:Narration; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research / Q000379:methods*; D009742:Nursing Theory; D010687:Philosophy, Nursing; D012107:Research Design