Using the Framework Method for the Analysis of Qualitative Dyadic Data in Health Research

Area of Science:

• Qualitative Research Methods
• Health Psychology
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Qualitative studies increasingly focus on dyadic relationships (e.g., couples, patient-caregiver).
• Limited methodology exists for dyadic analysis when partners are interviewed separately.
• Existing approaches often fail to capture the nuanced interplay within dyads due to separate data collection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel qualitative methodology for dyadic analysis of separately interviewed partners.
• To share practical knowledge and address challenges encountered in applying this approach.
• To offer a framework for analyzing dyadic data from a relational perspective.

Main Methods:

• Adaptation of the Framework method for dyadic qualitative data analysis.
• Application to data from a study on the impact of prostate cancer on younger men and their partners.
• Systematic examination and reflection on the analytical process and its challenges.

Main Results:

• Demonstration of a feasible and adapted Framework method for dyadic analysis.
• Identification of specific challenges in integrating and interpreting individual interviews within a dyadic context.
• Development of strategies for analyzing interview data from a dyadic viewpoint.

Conclusions:

• The adapted Framework method offers a viable approach for qualitative dyadic analysis with separately interviewed participants.
• This methodology enhances understanding of relational dynamics in health contexts, such as prostate cancer.
• Further research and methodological refinement are encouraged for dyadic qualitative analysis.