Table of Contents

Thematic Analysis Example in Qualitative Research

What is meant by thematic analysis?

Thematic analysis is a qualitative data analysis method developed by Virginia Braun and Victoria
Clarke that involves reading and interpreting qualitative data to derive themes. It is a widely
used approach to qualitative data analysis in psychology and other fields of qualitative research.
The thematic analysis example provided in this article shows in-depth description of each step
involved in the thematic analysis process. You can find more information about thematic
analysis on Thematic Analysis A Practical Guide.

Thematic Analysis Example

Thematic Analysis Process

Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis is a method of analyzing qualitative data that involves
coding reliability and the systematic development of a codebook. This is presented in this
thematic analysis example. The data analysis process begins with an initial analysis of the data,
followed by an iterative coding process to identify patterns and themes from the data.

Thematic analysis is often described as a foundational method for qualitative analysis, as it

provides a flexible and accessible approach to qualitative data analysis. It involves carefully
reading and re-reading the data to unpack the main approaches and types of thematic analysis,
such as inductive or deductive approaches, semantic or latent analysis, and reflexive or
interpretive analysis.

One of the key advantages of thematic analysis is its flexibility, allowing researchers to adapt the
method to their specific research questions and theoretical frameworks. However,
disadvantages of thematic analysis include the potential for inconsistency in coding and theme
development, as well as the risk of missing nuances or broader contextual factors. You are able
to develop an in-depth understanding of these advantages by following the presented thematic
analysis example in this article.
In using thematic analysis in psychology and other disciplines, researchers often create thematic
maps or visual representations of the identified themes and their relationships. This process
helps to establish coding reliability and ensure a rigorous and transparent data analysis process.

Thematic analysis is a qualitative data analysis method that involves reading and interpreting
the data to identify patterns or themes. It is a foundational approach to qualitative research
methods, particularly in psychology, offering both advantages and disadvantages in its
application, have a look at the provided thematic analysis example in this article.

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What is the step-by-step process for thematic analysis?

Here is an answer using all of the provided keywords:

Conducting thematic analysis involves a step breakdown that allows for a flexible approach to
qualitative data analysis. The first stage is familiarizing yourself with the data through close
reading. You can then begin coding segments and developing a codebook for the thematic
analysis. All the steps are comprehensively descripted in the thematic analysis example.

At this point, thematic analysis software will automatically collate coded data, helping identify
initial themes from the data. Different approaches like inductive (data-driven) or deductive
(theory-driven) analysis can be used. An inductive approach lets themes emerge, while a
deductive lens uses pre-existing concepts.

The next key stage in the analysis is reviewing and refining the potential themes. This iterative
process involves revisiting coded extracts to ensure themes accurately capture prominent
patterns related to the research questions. Multiple coders can enhance coding reliability. The
coding process is presented in this thematic analysis example.
As Theme in Qualitative Content Analysis and Thematic Analysis solidify (as shown in the
thematic analysis example above), carefully define and name each one in terms that capture its
essence and scope for the codebook. Different types of thematic analysis focus the analytic lens
– e.g. semantic (explicit) or latent (underlying) themes. You are able to gain more information
about how this step should be written by following our presented thematic analysis example.

The final step is to unpack and interpret the themes, using vivid examples to illustrate each
one’s meaning. Weave data extracts into an analytic narrative that makes sense of how themes
answer the research questions.

Thematic analysis (as shown in the thematic analysis example above) is a good choice as it offers
a flexible, accessible way to systematically explore qualitative data. While highly adaptable to
different analytic aims, it still requires analytic rigor in terms of coding, theme development and
interpretation.

Overall, thematic analysis is one of the most widely-used qualitative analysis methods because
it provides a robust yet simple process for identifying, analyzing and reporting real-world
themes and patterns across datasets. Clear steps enhance trustworthiness. By reviewing the
presented thematic analysis example, you are able to acknowledge how simple process it is.

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Explanation of Thematic Analysis Example

Research Topic: Exploring the Experiences and Challenges of First-Generation College Students
in Higher Education

Research Question:

How do first-generation college students perceive and navigate the various academic, social,
and financial challenges they encounter during their higher education journey?
Interview Questions:

1. Can you describe your experience as a first-generation college student? What were some of
the unique challenges or obstacles you faced, and how did you overcome them?

2. How did your family’s background and circumstances influence your decision to pursue
higher education? What kind of support or challenges did you encounter from your family
throughout this process?

3. Can you share your thoughts on the resources and support systems available to first-
generation college students at your institution? What additional resources or programs do you
believe could better assist students like yourself in achieving academic success?

Thematic Analysis Example – A Step-by-Step Guide

Here is a thematic analysis example which provide in-depth description of each step involved in
the thematic analysis of qualitative data.

Step 1: Familiarize yourself with the data

As shown in the thematic analysis example below, the first step involves familiarization with the
collected in order to develop an in-depth understanding of the collected data. This thematic
analysis example starts by presenting data collected from 3 participants with the aim of
addressing the research question above “How do first-generation college students perceive and
navigate the various academic, social, and financial challenges they encounter during their
higher education journey?”

The first step in this thematic analysis example involved reading and rereading the interview
responses provided by the 3 participants before starting the actual data analysis process. Data
from the participants are presented in the Table 1 below.
Participant Interview Question 1 Interview Question 2 Interview Question 3

1 As a first-generation college student, the experience was overwhelming at first. I didn’t

have anyone in my family who could guide me through the application process, financial aid
My family was supportive of my decision to pursue higher education, but they didn’t
fully understand the challenges I would face. They encouraged me to work hard and make them
proud, but they couldn’t provide much practical advice or [Link] university had some
resources available for first-generation students, like mentoring programs and academic
advisors. I had to actively seek them out, and even then, the support was limited.

2 Being a first-generation student was both challenging and rewarding. On one hand, I felt
a sense of pride in being the first in my family to pursue higher education. My family was
incredibly supportive of my decision to go to college, even though they didn’t fully understand
the process or what it entailed. They saw it as a path to a better life and encouraged me every
step of the way. The resources available for first-generation students at my institution
were decent, but I felt like they could have been better promoted and integrated into the overall
student experience.

3 My experience as a first-generation college student was a constant balancing act. On one

hand, I was incredibly proud to be the first in my family to pursue higher education and pave the
way for future generations. My family was extremely supportive of my decision to go to
college, but they didn’t fully understand the sacrifices and challenges involved. I had to figure
out a lot of things on my own, which was overwhelming at times. The resources available for
first-generation students at my university were limited, in my opinion. I think having a dedicated
center or program specifically for first-gen students, with advisors who understand our unique
challenges

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Step 2: Generating initial codes

Based on the responses provided, here are some initial codes generated in the second step as
presented in this thematic analysis example.

Lack of guidance

Feeling lost/overwhelmed
Navigating the system alone

Pride in being first-generation

Outsider feeling

Imposter syndrome

Family support

Lack of practical advice from family

Financial challenges

Belonging issues

Balancing act

Limited resources

Dedicated support needed

Integration of resources

Community/mentorship

Understanding unique challenges

These initial codes in this thematic analysis example capture the essence of the participants’
experiences and the common themes that emerged from their responses across the three
interview questions. These codes can serve as the foundation for further analysis, refinement,
and identification of overarching themes in the subsequent steps of thematic analysis.

Step 3: Searching for themes

The third step in this thematic analysis example involved searching for themes that could be
used for presenting findings from the conducted analysis. This step involved collating codes into
potential themes and gathering all data relevant to each potential theme.

Based on the initial codes generated, here’s an attempt at searching for themes from the
participants’ responses for this thematic analysis example:

Potential Themes:
1. Navigating Uncharted Territory

Codes: Lack of guidance, Feeling lost/overwhelmed, Navigating the system alone

2. Identity and Sense of Belonging

Codes: Pride in being first-generation, Outsider feeling, Imposter syndrome, Belonging issues

3. Family Support and Limitations

Codes: Family support, Lack of practical advice from family

4. Financial and Resource Challenges

Codes: Financial challenges, Limited resources

5. Need for Dedicated Support Systems

Codes: Dedicated support needed, Integration of resources, Community/mentorship,

Understanding unique challenges

6. Perseverance and Determination

Codes: Balancing act

These potential themes represent broader patterns and meaningful clusters of codes that
capture the essence of the participants’ experiences as first-generation college students. Each
theme encompasses related codes that highlight various aspects of their journeys, such as
navigating unfamiliar territory, grappling with identity and belonging, family dynamics, resource
constraints, and the need for tailored support systems. Additionally, the theme of perseverance
and determination emerges as a common thread underlying their experiences.
During this step (as shown in the thematic analysis example above), the aim is to identify these
overarching themes that capture the core meanings and shared experiences across the
participants’ responses. These themes will form the basis for further analysis and interpretation
in the subsequent steps of thematic analysis.

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Step 4: Reviewing themes

As shown in this thematic analysis example, the fourth step involves checking if the themes
work in relation to the coded extracts and the entire dataset, and generating a thematic ‘map’
of the analysis.

This step of the thematic analysis example involves reviewing themes that were initially
reported in the previous step “Searching for themes” in order to develop themes that can be
used to offer in-depth understanding of the research problem based on the information
provided by the interviewed participants.

1. Navigating Uncharted Territory

This theme captures the overwhelming feeling of being the first in the family to navigate the
college experience without guidance or prior knowledge.

It aligns well with codes like “lack of guidance,” “feeling lost/overwhelmed,” and “navigating the
system alone.”

Relevant quotes support this theme, such as “I didn’t have anyone in my family who could guide
me through the application process, financial aid, or college life in general.”

2. Identity and Sense of Belonging

This theme encompasses the participants’ experiences related to their identity as first-
generation students and their struggle to feel a sense of belonging on campus.

Codes like “pride in being first-generation,” “outsider feeling,” “imposter syndrome,” and
“belonging issues” align with this theme.

Quotes such as “I often felt like an outsider, not fully understanding the unspoken rules and
expectations of college life” and “I faced numerous challenges that my peers from more affluent
or college-educated families didn’t have to contend with” support this theme.

3. Family Support and Limitations

This theme captures the supportive nature of the participants’ families but also highlights the
limitations in providing practical advice and guidance due to their lack of experience with higher
education.

Codes like “family support” and “lack of practical advice from family” fit within this theme.

Relevant quotes include “My family was supportive of my decision to pursue higher education,
but they didn’t fully understand the challenges I would face” and “They saw it as a ticket to a
better life and encouraged me to pursue my dreams, but they couldn’t offer much practical
guidance or support.”

4. Financial and Resource Challenges

This theme encompasses the financial difficulties and limited resources available to first-
generation college students.

Codes like “financial challenges” and “limited resources” align with this theme.

Quotes such as “I struggled with finances” and “The resources available for first-generation
students at my university were limited” support this theme.

5. Need for Dedicated Support Systems

This theme highlights the participants’ perceived need for dedicated support systems,
mentorship, and resources tailored to the unique challenges faced by first-generation college
students.

Codes like “dedicated support needed,” “integration of resources,” “community/mentorship,”

and “understanding unique challenges” fit within this theme.
Relevant quotes include “I think having a dedicated center or program specifically for first-gen
students would have been incredibly helpful” and “I think having more dedicated support and
resources woven into the fabric of the university would have made a significant difference.”

6. Perseverance and Determination

This theme captures the participants’ resilience and determination to overcome the challenges
they faced as first-generation college students.

The code “balancing act” aligns with this theme.

A quote like “My experience as a first-generation college student was a constant balancing act”
supports this theme.

During this review process, the aim is to ensure that the identified themes accurately represent
the data and capture the essence of the participants’ experiences. If any themes seem
redundant or lack sufficient data to support them, they may need to be refined or combined
with other themes.

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Step 5: Defining themes

The fifth step in this thematic analysis example involves defining of themes that had been
generated from the codes. Precisely, this step involves conducting and refining the specifics of
each theme and generating clear definitions and names for each them. This thematic analysis
example offers you with a description of how this step should be structured:

Step 5: Define Themes

Based on the review process, here are the defined themes and their descriptions:

1. Navigating Uncharted Territory

This theme captures the overwhelming experience of being the first in the family to navigate
the complexities of higher education without prior knowledge or guidance. Participants felt lost
and unsure of what to expect, having to figure out the application process, financial aid, and
college life on their own.

2. Identity and Belonging Challenges

This theme encompasses the participants’ struggles with their identity as first-generation
college students and their sense of belonging on campus. They often felt like outsiders,
grappling with imposter syndrome and the feeling of not fully understanding the unspoken rules
and expectations of college life.

3. Family Support and Limitations

This theme highlights the supportive nature of the participants’ families, who encouraged and
believed in their pursuit of higher education. However, it also underscores the limitations in
providing practical advice and guidance due to their lack of experience with the college system.

4. Financial and Resource Constraints

This theme captures the financial challenges and limited resources available to first-generation
college students. Participants struggled with finances and felt that the resources provided by
their institutions were inadequate or not well-integrated into the overall student experience.

5. Need for Tailored Support Systems

This theme emphasizes the participants’ perceived need for dedicated support systems,
mentorship programs, and resources tailored to the unique challenges faced by first-generation
college students. They expressed a desire for better integration of these resources into the
fabric of the university, with advisors who understand their specific needs.

6. Perseverance and Resilience

This theme highlights the participants’ determination and resilience in overcoming the various
challenges they encountered as first-generation college students. Despite the obstacles, they
persevered and found strength in their pursuit of higher education, constantly balancing
multiple demands and responsibilities.

These defined themes provide a clear understanding of the key aspects of the first-generation
college student experience, as reflected in the participants’ responses. They capture the
challenges, support systems, and personal attributes that shaped their journeys, offering
insights into areas where institutions can improve support and resources for this population.

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Step 6: Write-up or reporting the results

In this thematic analysis example, the sixth step involved writing-up and reporting the final
themes generated from the conducted thematic analysis. Precisely, this step involved selecting
vivid and compelling extract examples for each theme, relating the analysis back to the research
question and existing literature, and producing a scholarly report of the analysis:

The thematic analysis of the interview data involving three first-generation college students
revealed several overarching themes that capture the essence of their experiences and
challenges. Detailed description of the themes is presented in the thematic analysis example
below.

Theme 1: Navigating Uncharted Territory – This highlighted the overwhelming feeling of being
the first in their families to navigate the complexities of higher education without prior
knowledge or guidance. Participants felt lost and unsure, having to figure out the application
process, financial aid, and college life on their own.

Theme 2: Identity and Belonging Challenges– Participants struggled with their identity as first-
generation students, often feeling like outsiders on campus. They grappled with imposter
syndrome and the sense of not fully understanding the unspoken rules and expectations of
college life.
Theme 3: Family Support and Limitations– Emerged as a theme that underscored the supportive
nature of the participants’ families, who encouraged their pursuit of higher education. However,
it also highlighted the limitations in providing practical advice and guidance due to their lack of
experience with the college system.

Theme 4: Financial and Resource Constraints– This was a recurring theme, capturing the
financial challenges and limited resources available to first-generation college students.
Participants struggled with finances and felt that the resources provided by their institutions
were inadequate or not well-integrated into the overall student experience.

Theme 5: Need for Tailored Support Systems– This theme emphasized the participants’ desire
for dedicated support systems, mentorship programs, and resources tailored to the unique
challenges faced by first-generation college students. They expressed a need for better
integration of these resources into the fabric of the university, with advisors who understand
their specific needs.

Theme 6: Perseverance and Resilience– This theme highlighted the participants’ determination
and resilience in overcoming the various challenges they encountered. Despite the obstacles,
they persevered and found strength in their pursuit of higher education, constantly balancing
multiple demands and responsibilities.

These themes provide valuable insights into the experiences of first-generation college students
and highlight areas where institutions can improve support and resources for this population.
Addressing the challenges and implementing tailored support systems can foster a more
inclusive and supportive environment, ultimately contributing to the success and well-being of
first-generation college students.

Use Thematic Analysis Software

Thematic analysis using software like NVivo or [Link] can be a good approach for qualitative
research in psychology, as outlined by Braun and Clarke. The software will automatically collate
coded data, helping researchers identify themes from the data through the analysis process. A
key benefit is increased coding reliability for the thematic analysis. The provided thematic
analysis example was completed using NVivo software. You can find more information about
software for thematic analysis in our article called AI Thematic Analysis.

Many of the main approaches to thematic analysis, like inductive or deductive, semantic or
latent, can be facilitated by the software tools. It provides a flexible way to code through
thematic analysis and unpack the data at different stages. Visualizations and loads of examples
aid the analysis as shown in the thematic analysis example above.

Thematic Analysis Example

Thematic Analysis Software/Tools

For step-by-step guidance, free thematic analysis guides from the software providers break
down the process and different approaches. The nature of the research questions will
determine if thematic analysis software is suitable, but it’s one of the popular qualitative
analysis methods used. All the steps are presented in the thematic analysis example above.

The analysis software will automatically handle tasks like collating codes into themes based on
the codebook. However, researchers still need to interpret and make sense of the themes in
terms of the analysis aims. Thematic analysis takes time and the software can’t replace careful
analytic thinking.

Using software doesn’t mean sacrificing the nuances – different types of interpretive thematic
analysis are possible. The tools are highly adaptable for inductive or deductive approaches.
Thematic analysis means rigorously exploring data, which software can enhance but not
automate entirely.

When to use thematic analysis

Thematic analysis is a versatile and widely applicable method in qualitative research. It can be
used in various contexts and research disciplines, including psychology, education, sociology,
health sciences, business, and marketing, among others. The decision to use thematic analysis
often depends on the research objectives, the nature of the data, and the epistemological
stance of the researcher. For instance, the thematic analysis example above involved analysis of
qualitative data on education research.
One common scenario where thematic analysis is particularly useful is when the research aim is
to explore and understand people’s experiences, perspectives, or beliefs on a particular topic or
phenomenon. Thematic analysis allows researchers to delve deeply into the rich, detailed
accounts provided by participants and uncover underlying patterns and meanings within the
data. This advantage is vividly described in the thematic analysis example above.

Thematic analysis can also be valuable when conducting exploratory research or investigating
under-researched areas. Since it is not bound to any specific theoretical framework, thematic
analysis enables researchers to approach their data with an open and inductive mindset,
allowing themes and insights to emerge naturally from the data rather than being constrained
by pre-existing theories or hypotheses.

Additionally, thematic analysis (as shown in the thematic analysis example above) can be
employed in both small-scale and large-scale studies, making it suitable for a wide range of
research projects. It can be applied to various types of qualitative data, including interview
transcripts, focus group discussions, open-ended survey responses, observational field notes,
and even visual or multimedia data. The thematic analysis example above begun with
presentation of the transcripts from the interview process.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of thematic analysis?

Thematic analysis is a popular qualitative analysis method with both advantages and
disadvantages. Braun and Clarke’s approach to conducting thematic analysis provides a flexible
and systematic process for coding and identifying themes from qualitative data. All these
advantages are shows in the thematic analysis example above as the entire process is easy to
understand.

One of the main advantages of thematic analysis (as shown in the thematic analysis example
above) is its flexibility. It can be used with different approaches, such as inductive or deductive,
and across various types of qualitative data, making it suitable for a wide range of research
questions and contexts. Additionally, thematic analysis is a relatively accessible method, making
it a good choice for researchers new to qualitative analysis.
Another advantage is that thematic analysis allows for a rich and detailed exploration of the
data. By unpacking and coding the data into initial codes and then organizing these codes into
themes, researchers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the patterns and meanings
within the data.

However, thematic analysis also has some disadvantages. One potential drawback is the risk of
inconsistency in coding and theme development, particularly if coding reliability measures are
not implemented. Without a clear codebook or step-by-step process, the analysis can become
subjective and lack transparency. These tools can also be used for conducting thematic content
analysis. You can find more information about thematic content analysis in our blogs here.

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Additionally, thematic analysis (as shown in the thematic analysis example above) requires a
significant investment of time and effort, as researchers must thoroughly immerse themselves
in the data, engage in multiple rounds of coding and analysis, and carefully define and refine the
themes. This process can be time-consuming, especially with large datasets or when multiple
researchers are involved.

Another potential disadvantage is that thematic analysis may oversimplify or fail to capture the
nuances and complexities within the data, particularly when compared to more in-depth
narrative analysis or other qualitative analysis methods that prioritize context and meaning-
making.

Despite these disadvantages, thematic analysis remains a popular and widely used approach in
qualitative research, particularly in psychology. Its flexibility and accessibility make it a valuable
tool for researchers seeking to make sense of qualitative data and explore themes relevant to
the nature of their research questions.
To address some of the limitations, researchers can follow best practices, such as maintaining
coding reliability through multiple coders or software, providing detailed descriptions of the
analysis process, and considering the use of complementary qualitative analysis methods to
enhance the depth and rigor of their findings. After reviewing information presented at the end
of each step of the thematic analysis example, you are able to develop an in-depth
understanding of the benefits of using this method of analysis.

Are thematic analysis and content analysis the same?

Thematic analysis (as shown in the thematic analysis example above) and content analysis are
related but distinct methods in qualitative research. While they share some similarities, there
are important differences in their approaches and objectives. However, these limitations may
not overshadow the benefits of this process, as shown in the thematic analysis example above.

Content analysis is a broader term that encompasses a range of quantitative and qualitative
techniques for analyzing textual or visual data. It involves systematically identifying and
categorizing specific elements or features within the data, such as words, phrases, or concepts,
and then quantifying their occurrence or frequency.

Thematic analysis (as shown in the thematic analysis example above), on the other hand, is a
specific type of qualitative content analysis that focuses on identifying, analyzing, and reporting
patterns or themes within the data. However, these limitations may not overshadow the
benefits of this process, as shown in the thematic analysis example above. Unlike content
analysis, which often emphasizes quantification and frequency counts, thematic analysis is more
concerned with capturing the richness and complexity of the data, and uncovering the
underlying meanings and interpretations.

One key distinction between the two methods is their approach to coding. In content analysis,
coding is often more focused on manifest content, meaning the explicit and surface-level
elements present in the data. In contrast, thematic analysis (see the thematic analysis example
above) involves coding at both the semantic (explicit) and latent (implicit) levels, allowing for
the exploration of deeper meanings and interpretations beyond the surface-level content.
However, these limitations may not overshadow the benefits of this process, as shown in the
thematic analysis example above.
Additionally, content analysis is often used for hypothesis testing or theory verification, where
researchers may have predetermined categories or coding schemes based on existing theories
or frameworks. However, these limitations may not overshadow the benefits of this process, as
shown in the thematic analysis example above.

Thematic analysis (see the thematic analysis example above), on the other hand, is more
suitable for exploratory research and inductive reasoning, where themes and insights emerge
from the data itself, rather than being guided by pre-existing theories. As reported in the
thematic analysis example above, the last step of this data analysis process must provide an in-
depth presentation of the reported findings.

What are the types of thematic analysis?

Thematic analysis encompasses various approaches and types, each with its own unique
characteristics and emphases. Here are some of the main types of thematic analysis:

Inductive thematic analysis: This approach is data-driven, where themes are derived directly
from the data itself, without being influenced by pre-existing theories or frameworks. Inductive
thematic analysis allows for the exploration of new and unexpected insights, making it suitable
for exploratory research or understudied phenomena. Kindly follow our blog page for more
thematic analysis examples on this type of thematic analysis.

Deductive thematic analysis: In contrast to the inductive approach, deductive thematic analysis
involves coding and analyzing the data based on pre-existing theoretical frameworks or
concepts. Researchers start with a set of predetermined themes or categories, which are then
applied to the data. This approach is often used when the research aims to test or extend
existing theories or models. Kindly follow our blog page for more thematic analysis examples on
this type of thematic analysis.

Semantic (explicit) thematic analysis: This type of thematic analysis focuses on identifying and
analyzing themes at a semantic or explicit level, where the themes are derived from the surface-
level meanings and descriptions within the data. Semantic thematic analysis is useful for
summarizing and describing the patterns evident in the data. Kindly follow our blog page for
more thematic analysis examples on this type of thematic analysis.
Latent (interpretive) thematic analysis: Latent thematic analysis goes beyond the surface-level
meanings and explores the underlying assumptions, ideas, and conceptualizations that shape or
inform the semantic content. This type of analysis involves a deeper level of interpretation and
seeks to uncover the implicit or hidden meanings within the data. Kindly follow our blog page
for more thematic analysis examples on this type of thematic analysis.

Reflexive thematic analysis: This approach emphasizes the active role of the researcher in the
process of generating themes. It recognizes that the researcher’s personal experiences,
assumptions, and theoretical orientations shape the interpretation of data. Reflexive thematic
analysis encourages researchers to critically examine their own positionality and decision-
making throughout the analysis process. Kindly follow our blog page for more thematic analysis
examples on this type of thematic analysis.

Reflexive thematic analysis is an approach within thematic analysis that emphasizes the active
role of the researcher in the process of generating themes. It recognizes that the researcher’s
personal experiences, assumptions, and theoretical orientations inevitably shape the
interpretation of data, and therefore, this subjectivity should be acknowledged and reflected
upon. Kindly follow our blog page for more thematic analysis examples on this type of thematic
analysis.

What is reflexive thematic analysis?

Reflexive thematic analysis is a rigorous qualitative data analysis approach within thematic
analysis in qualitative research, as outlined by Braun and her colleagues. This analysis method
emphasizes the active role of the researcher in analyzing qualitative data and deriving themes
from codes. The presented thematic analysis example above is a reflexive approach based on
the nature of analysis involved.

In the reflexive approach to thematic analysis, researchers critically examine their own
positionality, assumptions, and decision-making processes throughout the thematic analysis
process. As shown in the thematic analysis example above, reflexive approach involves
acknowledging and reflecting on how their personal experiences, theoretical orientations, and
disciplinary backgrounds shape the way they perceive, interpret, and analyze qualitative data.

Unlike the deductive approach or traditional discourse analysis, reflexive thematic analysis
encourages researchers to engage in a self-reflective and iterative process. As shown in the
thematic analysis example above, reflexive approach allows the researchers document and
question their coding choices, theme revisions, and the rationale behind their analytical
decisions, ensuring transparency and enhancing the credibility of their findings. All these steps
are presented in the thematic analysis example above.

Furthermore, reflexive thematic analysis recognizes the potential for multiple interpretations
and perspectives within qualitative data. Researchers actively seek out and consider
contradictory or divergent viewpoints, rather than solely focusing on confirming their initial
assumptions or biases.

The process of conducting reflexive thematic analysis involves immersing oneself in the
qualitative data, such as interview transcripts or observational field notes. Researchers then
engage in qualitative coding, identifying and labeling meaningful segments of data. These codes
are then organized and consolidated into broader themes, reflecting patterns or insights
relevant to the research question, as demonstrated in the thematic analysis example above.

Throughout this process, researchers maintain a reflexive stance, critically examining their own
positionality and decision-making processes. They document their reflections, consider
alternative interpretations, and engage in ongoing dialogue with the data, codes, and emerging
themes.

As shown in the thematic analysis example above, reflexive thematic analysis is particularly
valuable in research methods that aim to explore complex social phenomena, personal
experiences, or sensitive topics, where the researcher’s perspective and subjectivity play a
significant role in shaping the analysis and interpretation of qualitative data.

By embracing and reflecting on their own subjectivity, researchers can produce more
transparent, rigorous, and trustworthy analyses, ultimately contributing to a deeper
understanding of the phenomena under investigation. Examples of thematic analysis studies
that have employed a reflexive approach can be found in various disciplines, including
psychology, sociology, and health sciences.

Frequently Asked Questions about Thematic Analysis Example

What is an example of thematic analysis?

An example of thematic analysis could be a study exploring the experiences of new mothers
during the postpartum period. The researcher might conduct interviews with a group of new
mothers, transcribe the interviews, and then analyze the data using thematic analysis. This
would involve identifying patterns and themes related to the challenges, emotions, and coping
strategies experienced by the new mothers during this transitional period.

How do you write a thematic analysis method?

When writing the thematic analysis method section, you should clearly describe the data
collection process (e.g., interviews, focus groups), the participants’ characteristics, and the steps
followed in conducting the analysis. Outline the specific approach used (e.g., Braun and Clarke’s
six-phase process), explain how codes and themes were generated, and discuss the measures
taken to ensure trustworthiness and rigor in the analysis process.

What are the 5 steps of thematic analysis?

The five steps of thematic analysis, according to Braun and Clarke’s approach, are:

Familiarizing yourself with the data

Generating initial codes

Searching for themes

Reviewing potential themes

Defining and naming themes

What are the four types of thematic analysis?

The four types of thematic analysis, as described by Braun and Clarke, are:

Inductive (data-driven) thematic analysis: Themes are derived from the data itself, without
being influenced by preconceived theories or assumptions.

Deductive (theory-driven) thematic analysis: Themes are identified based on existing theoretical
frameworks or research questions.

Semantic thematic analysis: Themes are identified within the explicit or surface meanings of the
data.
Latent thematic analysis: Themes are identified by examining the underlying ideas,
assumptions, and conceptualizations that inform the semantic content of the data.

How to Do Thematic Analysis | Step-by-Step Guide & Examples

Published on September 6, 2019 by Jack Caulfield. Revised on June 22, 2023.

Thematic analysis is a method of analyzing qualitative data. It is usually applied to a set of texts,
such as an interview or transcripts. The researcher closely examines the data to identify
common themes – topics, ideas and patterns of meaning that come up repeatedly.

There are various approaches to conducting thematic analysis, but the most common form
follows a six-step process: familiarization, coding, generating themes, reviewing themes,
defining and naming themes, and writing up. Following this process can also help you
avoid confirmation bias when formulating your analysis.

This process was originally developed for psychology research by Virginia Braun and Victoria
Clarke. However, thematic analysis is a flexible method that can be adapted to many different
kinds of research.

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When to use thematic analysis

Thematic analysis is a good approach to research where you’re trying to find out something
about people’s views, opinions, knowledge, experiences or values from a set of qualitative data
– for example, interview transcripts, social media profiles, or survey responses.

Some types of research questions you might use thematic analysis to answer:
  How do patients perceive doctors in a hospital setting?

 What are young women’s experiences on dating sites?

 What are non-experts’ ideas and opinions about climate change?

 How is gender constructed in high school history teaching?

To answer any of these questions, you would collect data from a group of relevant participants
and then analyze it. Thematic analysis allows you a lot of flexibility in interpreting the data, and
allows you to approach large data sets more easily by sorting them into broad themes.

However, it also involves the risk of missing nuances in the data. Thematic analysis is often quite
subjective and relies on the researcher’s judgement, so you have to reflect carefully on your
own choices and interpretations.

Pay close attention to the data to ensure that you’re not picking up on things that are not there
– or obscuring things that are.

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Different approaches to thematic analysis

Once you’ve decided to use thematic analysis, there are different approaches to consider.

There’s the distinction between inductive and deductive approaches:

 An inductive approach involves allowing the data to determine your themes.

 A deductive approach involves coming to the data with some preconceived themes you
expect to find reflected there, based on theory or existing knowledge.

Ask yourself: Does my theoretical framework give me a strong idea of what kind of themes I
expect to find in the data (deductive), or am I planning to develop my own framework based on
what I find (inductive)?

There’s also the distinction between a semantic and a latent approach:

 A semantic approach involves analyzing the explicit content of the data.

  A latent approach involves reading into the subtext and assumptions underlying the
data.

Ask yourself: Am I interested in people’s stated opinions (semantic) or in what their statements
reveal about their assumptions and social context (latent)?

After you’ve decided thematic analysis is the right method for analyzing your data, and you’ve
thought about the approach you’re going to take, you can follow the six steps developed
by Braun and Clarke.

Step 1: Familiarization

The first step is to get to know our data. It’s important to get a thorough overview of all the data
we collected before we start analyzing individual items.

This might involve transcribing audio, reading through the text and taking initial notes, and
generally looking through the data to get familiar with it.

Step 2: Coding

Next up, we need to code the data. Coding means highlighting sections of our text – usually
phrases or sentences – and coming up with shorthand labels or “codes” to describe their
content.

Let’s take a short example text. Say we’re researching perceptions of climate change among
conservative voters aged 50 and up, and we have collected data through a series of interviews.
An extract from one interview looks like this:

Coding qualitative data

Interview extract Codes

Personally, I’m not sure. I think the climate is changing, sure,  Uncertainty
but I don’t know why or how. People say you should trust the
 Acknowledgement of climate change
experts, but who’s to say they don’t have their own reasons
for pushing this narrative? I’m not saying they’re wrong, I’m  Distrust of experts
just saying there’s reasons not to 100% trust them. The facts
 Changing terminology
keep changing – it used to be called global warming.

In this extract, we’ve highlighted various phrases in different colors corresponding to different
codes. Each code describes the idea or feeling expressed in that part of the text.

At this stage, we want to be thorough: we go through the transcript of every interview and
highlight everything that jumps out as relevant or potentially interesting. As well as highlighting
all the phrases and sentences that match these codes, we can keep adding new codes as we go
through the text.

After we’ve been through the text, we collate together all the data into groups identified by
code. These codes allow us to gain a a condensed overview of the main points and common
meanings that recur throughout the data.

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Step 3: Generating themes

Next, we look over the codes we’ve created, identify patterns among them, and start coming up
with themes.

Themes are generally broader than codes. Most of the time, you’ll combine several codes into a
single theme. In our example, we might start combining codes into themes like this:

Turning codes into themes

Codes Theme

 Uncertainty Uncertainty

 Leave it to the experts

 Alternative explanations

 Changing terminology Distrust of experts

 Distrust of scientists

 Resentment toward experts

 Fear of government control

 Incorrect facts Misinformation

 Misunderstanding of science

 Biased media sources

At this stage, we might decide that some of our codes are too vague or not relevant enough (for
example, because they don’t appear very often in the data), so they can be discarded.

Other codes might become themes in their own right. In our example, we decided that the code
“uncertainty” made sense as a theme, with some other codes incorporated into it.

Again, what we decide will vary according to what we’re trying to find out. We want to create
potential themes that tell us something helpful about the data for our purposes.

Step 4: Reviewing themes

Now we have to make sure that our themes are useful and accurate representations of the data.
Here, we return to the data set and compare our themes against it. Are we missing anything?
Are these themes really present in the data? What can we change to make our themes work
better?

If we encounter problems with our themes, we might split them up, combine them, discard
them or create new ones: whatever makes them more useful and accurate.
For example, we might decide upon looking through the data that “changing terminology” fits
better under the “uncertainty” theme than under “distrust of experts,” since the data labelled
with this code involves confusion, not necessarily distrust.

Step 5: Defining and naming themes

Now that you have a final list of themes, it’s time to name and define each of them.

Defining themes involves formulating exactly what we mean by each theme and figuring out
how it helps us understand the data.

Naming themes involves coming up with a succinct and easily understandable name for each
theme.

For example, we might look at “distrust of experts” and determine exactly who we mean by
“experts” in this theme. We might decide that a better name for the theme is “distrust of
authority” or “conspiracy thinking”.

Step 6: Writing up

Finally, we’ll write up our analysis of the data. Like all academic texts, writing up a thematic
analysis requires an introduction to establish our research question, aims and approach.

We should also include a methodology section, describing how we collected the data (e.g.
through semi-structured interviews or open-ended survey questions) and explaining how we
conducted the thematic analysis itself.

The results or findings section usually addresses each theme in turn. We describe how often the
themes come up and what they mean, including examples from the data as evidence. Finally,
our conclusion explains the main takeaways and shows how the analysis has answered our
research question.

In our example, we might argue that conspiracy thinking about climate change is widespread
among older conservative voters, point out the uncertainty with which many voters view the
issue, and discuss the role of misinformation in respondents’ perceptions.

Other interesting articles

If you want to know more about statistics, methodology, or research bias, make sure to check
out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Caulfield, J. (2023, June 22). How to Do Thematic Analysis | Step-by-Step Guide &
Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 19, 2025, from