Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Theory, Method and Research
- Jonathan A. Smith - Birkbeck University of London, UK
- Paul Flowers - University of Strathclyde, UK
- Michael Larkin
Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) is a qualitative research approach committed to the examination of how people make sense of their major life experiences. This text provides a detailed guide to conducting IPA research, presenting the theoretical underpinnings of the approach, a comprehensive overview of the stages of an IPA research project, and examples of high-quality IPA studies.
Extended worked examples from the authors' own studies in health, psychological distress, and identity illustrate the breadth and depth of IPA research, making this book the definitive guide to IPA for students and researchers alike.
New to this edition:
- A thoroughly updated chapter dedicated to analysis
- An exemplary mini-study
- Improved and updated terminology
- A chapter discussing innovations in design, data collection, and collaboration
'It is not often I can use "accessible" and "phenomenology" in the same sentence, but reading the new book, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis…certainly provides me the occasion to do so. I can say this because these authors provide an engaging and clear introduction to a relatively new analytical approach' - The Weekly Qualitative Report
This is an important text and highly relevant for nursing students. The new edition includes additional information about the latest developments in IPA.
A clear and accurate guide to IPA which is increasingly popular with postgraduate researchers.
Perfect! The best book for teaching IPA
The 1st edition has been a sort of 'holy writ' in my students' (and my) work with IPA - an invaluable resource.
This second edition is likely to be no different. I think the significant changes / additions are these:
The quality measures chapter - very helpful in the contested area of 'quality' in qualitative research;
The introduction of the PET and GET terms as part of the analysis process; and
The extension of the use of examples of exemplary research.
I think this text is a good addition to our resources and I've asked for umpteen copies to be purchased by our library.
key text for the curriculum
Students found it very easy to understand. It is therefore one of the essential materials.
Really useful new edition
This is an excellent text that I would recommend to any student considering using an IPA methodology. It is a very accessible publication and the second edition is packed full of both theory and practice (and some new terminology).
