Using framework analysis in health visiting research: Exploring first-time fathers' mental health and wellbeing

Abstract

In qualitative research it is important to select the most appropriate approach, often resulting in the study being aligned to a specific epistemological stance. This article discusses the use of framework analysis; a pragmatic approach to qualitative data analysis that is not underpinned by a specific theoretical approach and does not require the same detailed theoretical knowledge as used in other qualitative methods. A step-by-step worked example is presented, demonstrating how primary research data can be analysed using the framework method and the five steps of data management for thematic analysis, as described by Ritchie et al (2014) . A framework to guide data analysis can help novice researchers develop their skills to undertake robust qualitative data analysis, while providing an audit trail and transparency. Framework analysis could be more widely used in health visiting research.