What is thematic analysis used for in qualitative research?

Thematic analysis is a widely used method in qualitative research that focuses on identifying, analyzing, and reporting patterns (themes) within data. Its primary purpose is to provide a rich and detailed understanding of the data by highlighting significant themes that emerge from participants' perspectives or experiences.

This approach allows researchers to systematically interpret and make sense of complex qualitative data, such as interview transcripts, open-ended survey responses, or focus group discussions. By focusing on themes, researchers can gain insights into common experiences, beliefs, or emotions shared among participants, which can then inform conclusions or implications for further research or decision-making within a specific context.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the core purpose of thematic analysis. The first option involves statistical analysis, which is not applicable in the qualitative context of thematic analysis. The third option, concerning peer reviews, refers to a different aspect of the research process unrelated to the analysis of themes in qualitative data. Lastly, the fourth option pertains to survey design, focusing on structured data collection rather than the analysis of qualitative data. Thus, recognizing thematic analysis as a method for analyzing patterns and themes is essential for effective qualitative research.