Rigour in phenomenological research: reflections of a novice nurse researcher.
OBJECTIVE
This paper is intended to explore conflicts and doubts that novice researchers face when using phenomenological research methods, especially with regard to methodological rigour.


BACKGROUND
There is an increasing interest in different qualitative approaches. The best way to evaluate the quality of qualitative studies has been debated intensively. The great theoretical and methodological diversity of qualitative approaches suggests that a single set of criteria may not be appropriate for all types of research.


METHODS
This is a methodological paper that discusses a personal experience of addressing rigour in a phenomenological study, supported by literature on the topic.


CONCLUSIONS
Generic qualitative criteria may not be the most adequate to ensure rigour in phenomenological research. The different poles of discussion about the best way to ensure validity of phenomenological research puzzle novice nurse researchers.


CONCLUSIONS
Focusing on integrative validity that addresses experiential and methodological concerns ensures that researchers will respect the philosophical assumptions underlying a method and allows them to recognise study soundness in the findings and the research process.


CONCLUSIONS
Phenomenological research must demonstrate methodological congruence and provide meaningful results about lived experiences in a balanced way. Novice researchers need support to understand the articulation between philosophical and methodological foundations that guide the methods they use.
Ponta Delgada Nursing School, Nursing Research and Development Unit, University of the Azores, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal. hpereira@uac.pt
Helder Rocha
HR
Pereira
D006801:Humans; D015399:Nursing Research / Q000379:methods*; D012108:Research Personnel / Q000523:psychology*; D000078329:Workforce