Interpretive Description and Reflexive Thematic Analysis: Exploring Conceptual Coherence and Methodological Integrity

Researchers are increasingly using qualitative health methodologies to inform patient-centered healthcare practice. However, in doing so, they are often dismissing the inherent subjectivity of qualitative research to conform to quantitative standards of objectivity. Acknowledging that all aspects of research inquiry are influenced by situated researchers, I explore the co-use of interpretive description (ID), an applied qualitative health methodology, and reflexive thematic analysis (RTA), a thematic analysis approach that foregrounds researcher subjectivity. By examining the philosophical foundations, use of theory, analytical strategies, and indicators of research quality between ID and RTA, I conceptualize a methodologically coherent approach to their co-use that remains transparent about, and values, researcher subjectivity and reflexivity. This article also includes accessible explanations of complex methodological and philosophical concepts, practical examples for operationalizing reflexivity, and 22 guiding questions to support researchers in the coherent co-use of ID and RTA.