Theory in qualitative research: a framework that synthesises existing academic advice

Theory plays an important but often invisible role in the development of a qualitative research study. While it most obviously articulated in the choice of theory we use to explore and explain the topic of our study, it is often also hidden in the ontological, epistemological, and methodological decisions we make, especially in the design, implementation, and analysis of research. So far, guidance on how to use theories in research is broad, contains contradictory perspectives and can be daunting for academics and students alike. In this chapter, we synthesise some of the existing approaches to using theory in qualitative research, focusing specifically on the advice disseminated in peer-reviewed journal articles. In doing so, we propose a framework that encapsulates use of theory at five stages of a qualitative research study: (i) pre-design; (ii) during design; (iii) data collection; (iv) data analysis; (v) writing up. We suggest that, if clearly defined, theory can play a specific role in qualitative research that varies depending on the stage of the research, and that consideration should be given to the role and purpose of theory at each of these stages.