Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Theory, Method and Research
- Jonathan A. Smith - Birkbeck University of London, UK
- Paul Flowers - University of Strathclyde, UK
- Michael Larkin
Qualitative Research | Research Methods & Evaluation | Research Methods in Psychology
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
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).