Qualitative research: the "what," "why," "who," and "how"!

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Nursing Research
• Qualitative Inquiry

Background:

• Qualitative research is often perceived as a lower-level inquiry, leading to fragmented understanding of its utility and scientific merit.
• Varied conceptualizations impact the demonstration and utilization of qualitative research findings.
• A clear definition and understanding are crucial for transforming knowledge gained from qualitative studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define qualitative research and elucidate its significance in the broader research landscape.
• To discuss the types of questions addressed by qualitative research, its core characteristics, and methods.
• To present criteria for rigor and trustworthiness in qualitative research, particularly within nursing.

Main Methods:

• A framework is presented to understand the 'what,' 'why,' 'who,' and 'how' of qualitative research.
• Discussion includes different qualitative research approaches.
• Strategies for achieving trustworthiness in qualitative research are outlined.

Main Results:

• Qualitative research provides deep insights into health-related phenomena.
• It effectively captures and interprets subjective human experiences.
• Findings humanize healthcare and enrich further research inquiries.

Conclusions:

• Qualitative research is a vital tool for understanding complex health issues and subjective experiences.
• It enhances healthcare by providing a humanistic perspective.
• When conducted rigorously, qualitative research is highly relevant to nursing' goals and can be made clearer and more robust.