'The Sturdy Third Wheel': Application of Lifeworld Fractions in a Descriptive Phenomenological Work

Area of Science:

• Qualitative Research Methods
• Phenomenological Research
• Gerontology

Background:

• Exploring dignity in the digital world for older adults is crucial.
• Existing phenomenological methods may lack depth in translating philosophical concepts to practical analysis.
• Bridging philosophical underpinnings with rigorous qualitative methods is a persistent challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate the methodological translation of descriptive phenomenology using lifeworld fractions.
• To demonstrate how lifeworld fractions enhance the analysis of dignity in the digital lives of older adults.
• To provide a practical, step-by-step guide for phenomenological data analysis.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive phenomenological study utilizing lifeworld fractions (embodiment, temporality, spatiality, sociality, moodedness, selfhood, project).
• A seven-step analytic process: familiarisation, meaning units, transformation, evaluative judgement, clustering, idiographic description, and essential structure.
• Application of the Sheffield School's lifeworld fractions, influenced by the Duquesne tradition.

Main Results:

• Lifeworld fractions act as a 'sturdy third wheel,' balancing philosophical depth with analytic rigor.
• The seven-step process, guided by lifeworld fractions, reveals the underlying structure of everyday digital experiences.
• Methodological challenges include translating philosophy into practice and maintaining a 'bridled' reflexive attitude.

Conclusions:

• Lifeworld fractions significantly deepen descriptive phenomenological analysis, particularly for digital engagement studies.
• This approach enhances methodological coherence and provides practical guidance for qualitative researchers.
• The framework illuminates the complex interplay between technology, dignity, wellbeing, and inclusion in later life.