ArticleBMC medical research methodology2025
The reliance on conceptual frameworks in qualitative research - a way forward.
Article in BMC medical research methodology, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 4 papers.
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Who cites it
4 citing papers in PubMed.
- Frameworks to analyse accessibility of public recreational spaces for persons with disabilities: a rapid scoping review.Global health action · 2026Article
- The spinner model for flourishing through movement: a conceptual framework for exploring the interplay between physical literacy, meaningful physical activity, embodiment, and human flourishing.Frontiers in sports and active living · 2026Article
- Perspectives on which health settings geriatricians should staff: a qualitative study of patients, care providers and health administrators.BMC geriatrics · 2025Article
- Working With Large Qualitative Datasets: Key Processes From an Implementation Study in a Complex Clinical Setting.International journal of qualitative methodsArticle
Corrections and comments
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Authors and funding
2 authors.
Funding
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Abstract
backgroundWhile acknowledging that theory can be critical to scientific progress, we are concerned about instances of its tendency to encroach on, or replace, deep engagement with data in qualitative research. We discuss conceptual frameworks' role in conducting and teaching qualitative research.
methodsWe address three questions about our attachment as researchers to theory through conceptual frameworks: (1) What do conceptual frameworks offer qualitative research?; (2) Why do researchers use and teach conceptual frameworks in qualitative research?; and (3) How can we practice and teach rigour while integrating conceptual frameworks in qualitative research?
resultsOne way that theory may be misused in qualitative research is in the development and reliance on conceptual frameworks as a prescription for data collection and analysis. We suggest possible ways forward to ensure rigour while integrating frameworks in qualitative research, such as examining the evolution of our own theoretical perspectives.
conclusionsWe need to impart to our students the value of thinking deeply about their own data, of knowing what came before, and of taking the time and making an effort to unite these strands into novel and interesting results.
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Registered trials
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