How to conduct a qualitative meta-analysis: Tailoring methods to enhance methodological integrity

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Research Methodology

Background:

• Qualitative research is of interest in psychology.
• Meta-analyses of qualitative literature (meta-syntheses) are uncommon.
• Meta-syntheses aggregate findings and identify patterns across studies, similar to quantitative meta-analyses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explain the function and methodological development of qualitative meta-analyses.
• To provide recommendations for enhancing methodological integrity in meta-studies.
• To support the adaptation of meta-analytic procedures for specific research goals, particularly in psychotherapy research.

Main Methods:

• The paper outlines recommendations for conducting qualitative meta-analyses.
• Guidance is provided on selecting and adapting procedures to ensure methodological integrity.
• Key research processes are discussed, including study identification, data transformation, theme development, and findings communication.

Main Results:

• Researchers can tailor meta-analytic methods to their specific goals.
• Enhancing the rigor of qualitative meta-analyses is achievable through careful procedure selection.
• The paper offers practical advice for conducting robust meta-syntheses.

Conclusions:

• The paper provides guidance for researchers aiming to enhance the rigor of their qualitative meta-analytic studies.
• Adaptable meta-analytic methods can be tailored to meet particular research objectives.
• Methodological integrity is central to effective meta-synthesis in psychology.