Bridging abstraction and action: Phenomenology and public health research and practice

Objectives

To explore the role of phenomenological research in public health, highlighting its contributions, challenges, and practical implications.

Study design

A narrative review informed by studies employing phenomenological methodologies published in the journals Public Health and Public Health in Practice.

Methods

Using the search keywords “phenomenology” and “phenomenological”, eligible original studies were identified in the journals Public Health and Public Health in Practice. The characteristics and findings of the studies were reviewed and discussed in relation to how phenomenology may lead to actionable public health interventions.

Results

A total of six studies were reviewed. Data collection methods across the studies included semi-structured interviews, audio and written diaries, and participatory approaches. Analysis techniques commonly used frameworks like Colaizzi’s method and interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The studies addressed a range of public health issues, including barriers to postpartum diabetes screening, experiences of midwives during the pandemic, and strategies for chlamydia screening. Key findings included the depth of lived experiences, the impact of stigma, and the importance of culturally adapted interventions, albeit findings derived from small, purposive samples may face criticism regarding generalisability.

Conclusions

There is a notable paucity of phenomenological research in the field of public health. As a methodology, phenomenology enriches public health research and practice by illuminating subjective dimensions of the lived experience often overlooked by traditional metrics. Though challenging to execute, the methodology can achieve a balance between abstraction and actionable outcomes, advancing public health practices that are both empathetic and inclusive.