Bracketing in research: a typology

Area of Science:

• Qualitative Research Methodology
• Phenomenological Research
• Scientific Inquiry

Background:

• The term "bracketing" is widely used in qualitative research but lacks clear operationalization.
• Its application in studies has become superficial, detached from its phenomenological origins.
• This disconnect reduces bracketing to an ill-defined technique or a "black-box" term.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of bracketing.
• To identify and delineate the core elements that constitute bracketing.
• To distinguish how different research approaches prioritize these elements.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of bracketing in qualitative research.
• Examination of its origins in phenomenology.
• Development of a typology of bracketing forms.

Main Results:

• Bracketing's application in qualitative research is often vague and superficial.
• A typology of six distinct forms of bracketing has been developed.
• The typology clarifies the methodological rigor and evolution of bracketing.

Conclusions:

• Clarifying bracketing's core elements enhances its methodological rigor.
• Understanding distinct forms of bracketing improves its application in qualitative research.
• This work provides a framework for a more precise and effective use of bracketing.