Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1 Pediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing Department, Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Health Management Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2 Nursing and Midwifery School, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
Abstract
Background: Phenomenology has garnered significant attention as a qualitative research approach across various disciplines, including sociology, psychology, and medicine. This study aimed to compare analysis approaches in phenomenological research through a qualitative systematic review.
Methods: In this systematic review, an extensive search was conducted across multiple databases (Embase, PubMed, CINAHL, Ovid, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar) using keywords such as "phenomenology", "qualitative research", "descriptive phenomenology", and "hermeneutics". Inclusion criteria encompassed studies published in English that were peer-reviewed empirical research employing phenomenological or qualitative methodologies with full-text accessibility and detailed descriptions of research design and data analysis. Studies were excluded if they were duplicates, not published in English, not peer-reviewed, or lacked adequate methodological detail.
Results: Phenomenological research can be categorized into two primary approaches: descriptive phenomenology, rooted in Husserl’s philosophy, and hermeneutic-interpretive phenomenology, based on Heidegger’s philosophy. Differences in data analysis methods between these approaches are influenced by the researcher’s philosophical perspective. Although these differences may not be explicitly highlighted in the structured stages referenced in the literature, such as bracketing, they are significant.
Conclusion: In phenomenological research, while both descriptive and interpretive approaches share certain analytical stages, they differ in their philosophical foundations (Husserl vs. Heidegger), relevant literature, and focus on concepts such as bracketing and intentionality. Phenomenology extends beyond procedural steps, requiring researcher openness, intuition, and alignment with the chosen philosophical framework, essential for conducting credible and meaningful analyses.
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