Secondary analysis of qualitative data: a valuable method for exploring sensitive issues with an elusive population?

Abstract

This paper aims to demonstrate the process of conducting a secondary analysis of primary qualitative datasets. Whilst there is a well-established tradition of carrying out a secondary analysis of quantitative datasets within social and health research, this has not been the case with qualitative datasets. Despite a recent growth in interest in the secondary analysis of qualitative data, very little information is available regarding the process, as publications tend to focus on the outcomes of analyses. A secondary analysis of 28 transcripts, sorted from two primary datasets containing longitudinal and cross-sectional interview data, was carried out. The choice of applying a secondary analysis fulfilled the aims of: (i) addressing a sensitive area of research; and (ii) accessing a research population that was elusive, factors that may be barriers to carrying out research in areas that are considered to be of a sensitive nature, or topic. Secondary analysis has potentially important implications for qualitative researchers who seek to investigate sensitive topics within health, not least of which is the opportunity it offers to facilitate the training of researchers at all levels.