Qualitative Interpretation and Analysis in Psychology

Interpretation is an integral part of all qualitative research, yet relatively little has been written about its process. In her new book, Carla Willig, author of international bestseller Introducing Qualitative Research Methods in Psychology, sheds light on the role of interpretation in qualitative research in psychology and describes the different approaches for practice.

Packed with case studies, two full interview transcripts and worked examples from psychology, health sciences and the arts, Willig skilfully guides you to conduct qualitative research which is interpretative and based upon a clear rationale and interpretative position. You will also learn how to evaluate interpretative research and to acquire an understanding of what constitutes best ethical practice.

Carla’s transcribed conversations with Stephen Frosh, Christine Griffin and Jonathan Smith about the meaning and practice of interpretation provide a fascinating insight into the ways in which highly experienced researchers engage with the challenge of interpreting qualitative data.

This book will be valuable reading for all psychology students, researchers and practitioners and a useful reference for students across the social sciences and related health disciplines.

“This new book by Carla Willig closes a gap in qualitative research in psychology and beyond.”

Uwe Flick, Alice Salomon University, Berlin and Vienna Universities

“In this work Carla Willig takes on one of the most pressing challenges in qualitative inquiry: how are we to confront multiplicity in interpretation? I began reading with great curiosity; I came away feeling that this is the best treatment of this complex subject I have yet encountered.”

Kenneth Gergen, Senior Research Professor, Swarthmore College, USA

“This book offers a distinctively human and affective vision of interpretative work. There is much here for both dedicated qualitative researchers and curious empiricists of every stripe. Students of psychology, read on: you have nothing to lose but your prejudices.”

Steven Brown, Professor of Social and Organisational Psychology, University of Leicester, UK

“At last! This is the book that qualitative researchers in psychology have required for some time, and it fills a significant gap for the field.”

Kerry Chamberlain, Professor of Social and Health Psychology, Massey University, New Zealand