Planning and conducting cross-cultural qualitative research: a methodological framework and resources for health researchers.

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this review was to develop a methodological framework that could be applied during the design and conduct of cross-cultural qualitative research with people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in health contexts or settings.

Methods: Developing the methodological framework in this study consisted of three phases. In Phase 1, a literature review was undertaken to identify relevant evidence by searching bibliographic databases, online sources and relevant journals. In Phase 2, methodological and ethical concepts, issues and considerations were summarized, synthesized and consolidated into a framework. In Phase 3, the methodological framework was refined by applying it to a cross-cultural qualitative study.

Results: The resulting methodological framework proposes two stages (preparation and action) and eleven key steps for designing, conducting and reporting cross-cultural qualitative research. Other practical resources (i.e. glossary of terms and detailed prompt tool) for health researchers that can be used with the framework are also presented.

Conclusions: This article presents a methodological framework that can guide high-quality cross-cultural qualitative research and is intended for use by health researchers, especially those new to cross-cultural qualitative research. It has the potential to improve the inclusivity and cultural responsiveness of qualitative research.