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Peer-reviewedCC BY-NC-NDHuli yanjiu

Qualitative content analysis vs reflexive thematic analysis: methodological comparison and key procedures for data analysis

  • YU Shuhui
  • YAO Xiuyu
  • WANG Qing
  • MENG Jingwen
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Abstract

This paper systematically reviewed the relevant terminology and methodological orientations of content analysis and thematic analysis,two widely employed approaches in qualitative research.It compared their similarities and differences,with the data analysis of directed content analysis and reflexive thematic analysis,respectively.Each approach was then illustrated through in⁃depth case examples.The aim is to enhance the appropriateness of methodological selection,transparency of analytical processes,and evaluability of research findings.

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Cite

BibTeXRIS
BibTeX
@article{shuhui2026qualitative,
  title = {{Qualitative content analysis vs reflexive thematic analysis: methodological comparison and key procedures for data analysis}},
  author = {YU Shuhui and YAO Xiuyu and WANG Qing and MENG Jingwen},
  journal = {Huli yanjiu},
  year = {2026},
  month = oct,
  url = {http://hlyj.suo1.cn/thesisDetails#10.12102/j.issn.1009-6493.2026.21.014},
  note = {CC BY-NC-ND},
}
RIS
TY  - JOUR
TI  - Qualitative content analysis vs reflexive thematic analysis: methodological comparison and key procedures for data analysis
AU  - YU Shuhui
AU  - YAO Xiuyu
AU  - WANG Qing
AU  - MENG Jingwen
PY  - 2026
DA  - 2026/10/30
JO  - Huli yanjiu
UR  - http://hlyj.suo1.cn/thesisDetails#10.12102/j.issn.1009-6493.2026.21.014
AB  - This paper systematically reviewed the relevant terminology and methodological orientations of content analysis and thematic analysis,two widely employed approaches in qualitative research.It compared their similarities and differences,with the data analysis of directed content analysis and reflexive thematic analysis,respectively.Each approach was then illustrated through in⁃depth case examples.The aim is to enhance the appropriateness of methodological selection,transparency of analytical processes,and evaluability of research findings.
SN  - 1009-6493
ER  -