Results and Discussion in Qualitative Research: Examples

Qualitative research focuses on uncovering insights and understanding human behavior through in-depth interviews, observations, and textual analysis. Unlike quantitative research, which emphasizes statistical analysis and numerical data, qualitative research aims to explore nuances, perspectives, and subjective experiences. In this article, we will explore the concepts and provide examples of results and discussions in qualitative research.

Results in Qualitative Research: In qualitative research, the results section presents findings from data analysis, often in the form of themes or patterns that emerge. Researchers organize and analyze qualitative data using various methods, such as coding, thematic analysis, or grounded theory. The results should provide a clear and coherent interpretation of the data collected.

For example, let's consider a study that explores the experiences of cancer survivors. After conducting interviews with several survivors, the researchers identify common themes related to their experiences. The results section would present these themes, supported by quotations or excerpts from the interviews. The focus should be on presenting the richness and depth of the data, rather than solely summarizing the findings.

The results section may also include subheadings that categorize different aspects or dimensions of the research topic. Using the same cancer survivors' study, the subheadings could include emotional impact, treatment experiences, and social support. This organization helps readers navigate through the results and understand the scope of the findings.

Discussion in Qualitative Research: The discussion section of a qualitative research article allows researchers to interpret the findings, compare them to existing literature, and draw overall conclusions. It goes beyond the presentation of results and delves into the meaning, implications, and broader context of the research.

In the discussion section, researchers may elaborate on the significance of the identified themes or patterns, exploring their relevance to theory, practice, or social phenomena. They may also discuss any unexpected or contradictory findings, providing possible explanations and highlighting areas that require further investigation.

Let's return to the cancer survivors' study as an example. In the discussion section, researchers may explore how the identified themes align with existing literature on survivorship, post-traumatic growth, and quality of life. They may discuss the implications of their findings for healthcare professionals, policymakers, or support organizations. The discussion section should provide insights and generate new knowledge, offering a deeper understanding of the research topic.

It is important to note that qualitative research does not aim for generalizability in the same way that quantitative research does. Instead, its focus is on generating rich, context-specific insights that can create a foundation for further research or inform practice. The discussion should acknowledge the limitations of the study, such as potential biases, while recognizing the unique contributions it makes.

In conclusion, the results and discussion sections in qualitative research play a critical role in presenting and interpreting the findings. The results section presents themes, patterns, or categories that arise from data analysis, providing a rich description of the collected data. The discussion section goes beyond the presentation of results and explores the meaning and implications of the findings, drawing connections to existing knowledge and generating new insights. By adhering to qualitative research principles and standards, researchers can contribute to our understanding of human experiences and behaviors.