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Cited by 294Qualitative Research Methods and ApplicationsQualitative Research Methods and EthicsFocus Groups and Qualitative Methods

Demystification and Actualisation of Data Saturation in Qualitative Research Through Thematic Analysis

Open access
Naeem, Muhammad, Ozuem, Wilson, Howell, Kerry, Ranfagni, Silvia·2024·International Journal of Qualitative Methods
DOI 10.1177/16094069241229777
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Abstract

The concept of saturation in qualitative research is a widely debated topic. Saturation refers to the point at which no new data or themes are emerging from the data set, which indicates that the data have been fully explored. It is considered an important concept as it helps to ensure that the findings are robust and that the data are being used to their full potential to achieve the research aim. Saturation, or the point at which further observation of data will not lead to the discovery of more information related to the research questions, is an important aspect of qualitative research. However, there is some mystification and semantic debate surrounding the term saturation, and it is not always clear how many rounds of research are needed to reach saturation or what criteria are used to make that determination during the thematic analysis process. This paper focuses on the actualisation of saturation in the context of thematic analysis and develops a systematic approach to using data to justify the contribution of research. Consequently, we introduce a distinct model to help researchers reach saturation through refining or expanding existing quotations, codes, themes and concepts as necessary.

AI snapshot

Written from the paper’s full text.

TL;DR

This conceptual paper argues that saturation in qualitative research is often mystified and under-specified, especially during thematic analysis, and proposes the PRICE model to systematize it. PRICE comprises Perspectivation, Recapitulation, Integration, Crystallisation, and Edification, aiming to help researchers fully use data to meet research aims.

Key findings

  • The paper introduces the PRICE model—Perspectivation, Recapitulation, Integration, Crystallisation, and Edification—as a systematic approach for reaching saturation in thematic analysis.
  • Saturation is defined as the point at which no new keywords, patterns, codes, or themes emerge from the data set, indicating that data have been fully explored, understood, and used to their full potential to achieve the research aim.
  • Perspectivation is operationalized through velocity (number of times keywords are repeated), viscosity (richness of language and different words used for the same narrative), and vibrancy (emotional, linguistic, theoretical, and philosophical richness).
  • The paper argues that existing saturation discussion predominantly targets data collection, and it redirects attention to saturation during thematic analysis; no numerical results are reported.

Methods

  • Conceptual/methodological paper; no empirical sample, dataset, or participants are reported. It synthesizes existing qualitative literature and develops a model.
  • The paper draws on grounded theory approaches to saturation where relevant but focuses specifically on thematic analysis.
  • Main analysis is conceptual: it describes the PRICE stages and elements of perspectivation, presented in Figures 1 and 2, without statistical or empirical analysis.

Limitations

  • Stated: the authors call for further inquiry into the PRICE model’s suitability for different philosophical frameworks and research methodologies, its effectiveness in strengthening dependability and precision, and its role in improving thematic analysis procedures.
  • Stated: researchers may not reach saturation, especially with large data sets, and may choose to stop analysis after a certain number of cases to keep the analysis manageable and feasible.
  • Evident from the text: no empirical application or validation of the PRICE model is presented; no sample, data, or outcomes are reported, and the model primarily incorporates principles and theories from grounded theory and other qualitative methodologies, leaving broader applicability untested.

Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.

Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.1177/16094069241229777

Cites

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

0 of 47 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged

  • Interpretationcitation

    There is a gap: existing studies tend to concentrate on data saturation during collection rather than adopting a nuanced, systematic approach during thematic analysis to grasp saturation's true essence.

    “This gap highlights the tendency to concentrate on data saturation during collection rather than adopting a nuanced, systematic approach during thematic analysis to grasp saturation's true essence, where data fully contribute to the research's goals.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Interpretationcitation

    The concept of saturation as used in grounded theory may not be directly applicable to thematic analysis.

    “Therefore, the concept of saturation as used in grounded theory may not be directly applicable to thematic analysis.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Naeem et al. (2023)

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  • Premisecitation

    Lack of clear guidelines for achieving saturation is an issue despite its importance in many institutional contexts.

    “This issue is made worse by the lack of clear guidelines for achieving saturation, an issue that Morse, Barrett, Mayan, Olson, and Spiers (2002) and Guest (2006) have brought to attention despite its importance in many institutional contexts.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites Morse, Barrett, Mayan, Olson, and Spiers (2002)

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    • cites Guest (2006)

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  • Premisecitation

    The idea of saturation is a subject of disagreement among qualitative researchers regarding its meaning, clarity, and practicality.

    “However, above and beyond its obvious importance, the idea of saturation is a subject of difference among qualitative researchers who have differences in opinion regarding its meaning, clarity, and practicality (O' Reilly & Parker, 2013;Strauss & Corbin, 1998).”
    • Also stated in: § Abstract · hedged
      “However, there is some mystification and semantic debate surrounding the term saturation, and it is not always clear how many rounds of research are needed to reach saturation or what criteria are used to make that determination during the thematic analysis process.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites O' Reilly & Parker, 2013

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    • cites Strauss & Corbin, 1998

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  • Premisecitation

    Analysing qualitative data is an ongoing cycle that starts while data are still being gathered, rather than after.

    “Analysing qualitative data is an ongoing cycle that starts while data are still being gathered, rather than after (Hill & Hansen, 1960).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Hill & Hansen, 1960

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  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 72
  • May combine two claims. 20
  • The quote only partly states this claim. 1

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    Premisecitation

    Researchers use saturation to assess whether to continue data collection, stop it, or modify research methodologies to investigate areas lacking enough saturation.

    “Researchers utilise the notion of saturation to assess whether to continue data collection, stop it, or modify research methodologies to investigate areas that lack enough saturation in the study process (Malterud et al., 2015;Roy et al., 2015).”
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    Premisecitation

    It is unclear what the term saturation encompasses and what specific process is required to claim that saturation has been accomplished.

    “Indeed, it is unclear what the term actually encompasses (Bowen, 2008) and what specific process is required to claim that saturation has been accomplished (O'Reilly & Parker, 2013).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites Bowen, 2008

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    • cites O'Reilly & Parker, 2013

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    Premisecitation

    The absence of clear and transparent guidelines for defining and attaining saturation adds complexity to its implementation and gives rise to uncertainties over its actual significance and the most effective methods to achieve it.

    “The absence of clear and transparent guidelines for defining and attaining saturation, as pointed out by Bowen (2008) and O'Reilly and Parker (2013), adds more complexity to its implementation, giving rise to uncertainties over its actual significance and the most effective methods to achieve it.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites Bowen (2008)

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    • cites O'Reilly and Parker (2013)

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    Interpretationnone given

    The selection of quotations and keywords is the foundation of perspectivation to reach the first element of saturation.

    “The selection of quotations and keywords is the foundation of the perspectivation to reach the first element of saturation.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: Qualitative data contain a finite set of themes, codes, and patterns that can be exhausted.
    • Rests on an assumption: Researchers can reliably identify when no new themes, codes, or patterns are emerging.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The operationalization of saturation can only be done efficiently once data collection has taken place, which introduces difficulty in establishing sample sizes beforehand.

    “The operationalization of saturation can only be done efficiently once data collection has taken place, which introduces an additional level of difficulty in establishing sample sizes beforehand (Hammersley, 2015).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Hammersley, 2015

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    Interpretationreasoning

    The PRICE model can help researchers reach saturation in thematic analysis.

    “This paper developed the PRICE model (Figure 1) which could help researchers to reach the saturation point in thematic analysis.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: Qualitative data contain a finite set of themes, codes, and patterns that can be exhausted.
    • Rests on an assumption: Researchers can reliably identify when no new themes, codes, or patterns are emerging.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Grounded Theory employs a persistent comparative strategy to achieve saturation of themes and coding.

    “Grounded Theory employs a persistent comparative strategy to achieve saturation of themes and coding (Charmaz, 2006).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Charmaz, 2006

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    Interpretationreasoning

    Saturation in thematic analysis is reached by refining and expanding upon previously established keywords, quotations, codes and themes.

    “This is how the saturation stage of thematic analysis is reached: by refining and expanding upon previously established keywords, quotations, codes and themes.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: Qualitative data contain a finite set of themes, codes, and patterns that can be exhausted.
    • Rests on an assumption: Researchers can reliably identify when no new themes, codes, or patterns are emerging.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    The explicit reporting of different perspectives in data analysis can reach saturation to ensure clarity of the analysis.

    “The explicit reporting of different perspectives in the data analysis can reach saturation to ensure the clarity of the analysis.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: Qualitative data contain a finite set of themes, codes, and patterns that can be exhausted.
    • Rests on an assumption: Researchers can reliably identify when no new themes, codes, or patterns are emerging.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Rule-of-thumb estimates are used to determine how many observations or interviews are needed, and claims of saturation are sometimes made without specifying the criterion used to support the claim.

    “Fundamentally, rule-of-thumb estimates are used to determine how many observations or interviews are needed and claims of saturation are sometimes made without specifying the criterion used to support the claim (Glaser & Strauss, 1967).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Glaser & Strauss, 1967

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Quotations can bring content to life, and a competent application of research ethics avoids the (mis)use of catchy words.

    “Quotations can bring content to life (White et al., 2014), and a competent application of research ethics avoids the (mis)use of catchy words (Silverman, 2017).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites White et al., 2014

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    • cites Silverman, 2017

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  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Saturation is a crucial notion in qualitative research because it guarantees that data have been thoroughly examined and findings are strong and trustworthy.

    “Saturation is a crucial notion in qualitative research, as it guarantees that the data have been thoroughly examined and that the findings are strong and trustworthy (Glaser & Strauss, 1967).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Glaser & Strauss, 1967

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Perspectivation can be used to reach saturation in thematic analysis.

    “Perspectivation can be used to reach saturation in thematic analysis; perspectivation refers to a researcher's attempt to take into consideration different perspectives of the research problem, which leads to richer insights.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: Qualitative data contain a finite set of themes, codes, and patterns that can be exhausted.
    • Rests on an assumption: Researchers can reliably identify when no new themes, codes, or patterns are emerging.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisenone given

    The discussion on saturation in qualitative research has predominantly focused on the data collection phase.

    “The discussion on saturation in qualitative research has been extensively enriched by scholars, predominantly focusing on the data collection phase.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationcitation

    Noting the number of times keywords are repeated by participants using the same word or different words with similar meaning would help to reduce the number of quotations required to illustrate keywords.

    “This current paper suggests that noting the number of times keywords are repeated by participants using the same word or different words with similar meaning would help to reduce the number of quotations required to illustrate keywords (Naeem & Ozuem, 2021, 2021b).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Naeem & Ozuem, 2021, 2021b

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    Premisecitation

    For researchers to comprehend the terminology utilised and fully understand the numerous implications present in a specific dataset, a wide array of terms and expressions is necessary.

    “Therefore, for researchers to comprehend the terminology utilised and fully understand the numerous implications present in a specific dataset, a wide array of terms and expressions is necessary (Dey, 2003).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
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    Premisecitation

    Adeptness in numerical analysis is critical for the successful execution of quantitative data-driven research.

    “In spite of the relatively inconsequential nature of numerical analysis in qualitative inquiries, adeptness in this domain is critical for the successful execution of quantitative data-driven research (Sandelowski, 2001).”
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    Premisecitation

    Themes must be coherent and clearly differentiated from each other to present a thorough and inclusive analysis.

    “In order to present a thorough and inclusive analysis of the research outcomes, it is essential that the themes are coherent and clearly differentiated from each other (Braun & Clarke, 2006).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
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    Premisecitation

    Counting is inappropriate if theoretical sampling and emergent design principles are employed.

    “In contrast, Guest, et al., (2012) noted that counting is inappropriate if theoretical sampling and emergent design principles are employed and explained that the frequency of words is directly related to the number of times a participant answers a question using the same words or different words that have the same meaning.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Guest, et al., (2012)

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Thematic integration analysis enables the construction of a cohesive narrative or the dissemination of a more comprehensive understanding of the study's findings through the connection of distinct themes.

    “Thematic integration analysis enables the construction of a cohesive narrative or the dissemination of a more comprehensive understanding of the study's findings through the connection of distinct themes.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Recapitulation is not possible without elucidating all of the connections between concepts, which requires conceptualisation of the codes and themes.

    “Recapitulation is not possible without elucidating all of the connections between concepts, which requires conceptualisation of the codes and themes.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    An investigation's rigour is evaluated not by predetermined standards but by its own internal consistency and quality.

    “An investigation's rigour is evaluated not by some set of predetermined standards but by its own internal consistency and quality (Van Maanen et al., 2007).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
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    Interpretationnone given

    The social constructionism position can be particularly useful in comprehending the role of language, norms, culture, and values, while theoretical underpinnings can provide opportunities to conceptualize the data into meaningful and conceptual forms.

    “The social constructionism position can be particularly useful in comprehending the role of language, norms, culture, and values, while theoretical underpinnings of the research can provide opportunities to conceptualize the data into meaningful and conceptual forms.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    One method for summarising information is to create a table detailing the number of participants who supported each theme.

    “One method for summarising information is to create a table detailing the number of participants who supported each theme (Frieze, 2013).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
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    Interpretationnone given

    Crystallisation is required to corroborate the findings and to search for alternative interpretations after interpretations have been reached.

    “Furthermore, crystallisation is required to corroborate the findings and to search for alternative interpretations after interpretations have been reached.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Textual analysis of transcripts is a crucial part of theory construction because non-interview data typically play a merely supplementary role.

    “Textual analysis of transcripts is a crucial part of theory construction because non-interview data typically play a merely supplementary role (Silverman, 2017).”
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    Premisecitation

    The continuous discourse surrounding numerical data often leads to the deliberate omission, underutilization, or disregard of numerical data in qualitative research.

    “The continuous discourse surrounding this matter often leads to the deliberate omission, underutilization, or disregard of numerical data in qualitative research (Olson, 2000).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Olson, 2000

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    Premisecitation

    Perspective is deeply embedded in language structure as a result of anthropomorphism.

    “So, perspective is deeply embedded in language structure as a result of anthropomorphism (Canisius, 1987); the focus of analytical interest is on the communication of both overt and covert perspectival elements in the language's morphology.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
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    Interpretationreasoning

    It is possible to ensure clarity of the analysis to its fullest extent through the explicit reporting of the multiple theoretical and epistemological perspectives involved.

    “It is possible to ensure clarity of the analysis to its fullest extent through the explicit reporting of the multiple theoretical and epistemological perspectives involved.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Keywords can be used as an additional step in thematic analysis to develop concepts based on the meanings of the words used by participants.

    “To achieve this, keywords can be used as an additional step in thematic analysis, enabling the development of concepts based on the meanings of the words used by the participants.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationcitation

    There is a need to integrate themes and codes together as a whole story, which is the integration stage required to reach the full saturation of integration of the developed concepts.

    “One way to summarise the data is with a table showing how many people supported each theme (Frieze, 2013); however, there is also a need to integrate these themes and codes together as a whole story, which is the integration stage required to reach the full saturation of integration of the developed concepts (Burton et al., 1991).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
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    Premisecitation

    Incorporating the opinions of participants is crucial for enriching the research's depth.

    “Incorporating the opinions of participants is crucial for enriching the research's depth (Gordon, 2020).”
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    Interpretationnone given

    How vocabularies (keywords) are related to one another in conversation is related to the vibrancy.

    “How vocabularies (keywords) are related to one another in conversation is related to the vibrancy (see Figure 2).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationcitation

    This perspective in data analysis would help analysis of individual words and their relationships to other words within a given language.

    “This perspective in data analysis would help analysis of individual words and their relationships to other words within a given language; words and their constituents, such as their roots, stems, prefixes and suffixes (Bratlie et al., 2022;Sagarra & Ellis, 2013).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
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    Premisecitation

    Contextualisation creates links to a wide range of discourse events and concepts that could be merged as a new concept formed on the basis of data.

    “Contextualisation creates links to a wide range of discourse events and concepts being indicated that could be merged as a new concept formed on the basis of data (Gumperz, 1982;1992), including frames of interpretation that may be situated within the text or interactional unit itself.”
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    Interpretationreasoning

    Viscosity leads to a richness of the concepts being developed through the use of the different words used by the participants.

    “Viscosity leads to a richness of the concepts being developed through the use of the different words used by the participants.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Facts and figures can enrich and elucidate stories in remarkable ways.

    “Facts and figures can enrich and elucidate stories in remarkable ways (Olson, 2000).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Olson, 2000

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    Premisecitation

    There is no such thing as speech production without contextualisation.

    “There is no such thing as speech production without contextualisation (Auer, & di LuzioRefstyled, 1992).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Auer, & di LuzioRefstyled, 1992

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    The velocity, viscosity and vibrancy of the perspectives can achieve the perspectivation element of thematic analysis.

    “Based on this justification, it has been established that the velocity, viscosity and vibrancy of the perspectives can achieve the perspectivation element of thematic analysis.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: Qualitative data contain a finite set of themes, codes, and patterns that can be exhausted.
    • Rests on an assumption: Researchers can reliably identify when no new themes, codes, or patterns are emerging.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Recapitulation, as a key to saturation, requires the iterative process of thematic analysis, which identifies and refines important concepts through consideration of the developed codes and themes.

    “Recapitulation, as a key to saturation, requires the iterative process of thematic analysis, which identifies and refines important concepts through consideration of the developed codes and themes.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Contextualisation is taken as a factor of saturation in the analysis of data.

    “Therefore, contextualisation is taken as a factor of saturation in the analysis of data.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Research can take many rounds to find data patterns until no new patterns emerge from the data.

    “Creswell and Poth (2018) describe that research can take many rounds to find data patterns until no new patterns emerge from the data.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Creswell and Poth (2018)

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  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisecitation

    Codes and themes must be grounded in the real data.

    “However, it is imperative to note that codes and themes must be grounded in the real data (Naeem, et al., 2023;Naeem & Ozuem, 2022).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites Naeem, et al., 2023

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    • cites Naeem & Ozuem, 2022

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    Premisecitation

    This method involves using multiple perspectives, such as theoretical perspectives, to analyse the data and consideration of how different perspectives may influence the interpretation of the data.

    “This method involves using multiple perspectives, such as theoretical perspectives, to analyse the data and consideration of how different perspectives may influence the interpretation of the data (Krippendorff, 2004).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Krippendorff, 2004

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    Premisecitation

    The selection of rich quotations is a source of richness of the analysis.

    “Consequently, the selection of rich quotations would be a source of richness of the analysis (Eldh et al., 2020).”
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    • cites Eldh et al., 2020

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    Interpretationcitation

    The velocity and viscosity of different perspectives would also improve the vibrancy of the analysis.

    “Therefore, it would be right to say that the velocity and viscosity of different perspectives would also improve the vibrancy of the analysis.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Qualitative data analysis process is repeated until no new themes or patterns emerge from the data, which indicates that saturation has been reached in data collection.

    “Qualitative data analysis process is repeated until no new themes or patterns emerge from the data, which indicates that saturation has been reached in data collection (Glaser & Strauss, 1967).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Glaser & Strauss, 1967

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    Interpretationcitation

    Researchers can use perspectivation to gain deep insight into a problem by considering it from multiple angles, which contrasts with traditional, single-perspective approaches.

    “Researchers can use perspectivation to gain deep insight into a problem by considering it from multiple angles, which contrasts with traditional, single-perspective approaches.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Combining technical expertise, originality in design, introspection and openness to criticism results in rigour.

    “Combining technical expertise, originality in design, introspection and openness to criticism results in rigour (Bansal & Corley, 2011).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Bansal & Corley, 2011

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    Premisecitation

    The different narrative and perspective styles that can emerge from adopting a variety of points of view (viscosity) on the same issues improve the vibrancy of the analysis.

    “The different narrative and perspective styles that can emerge from adopting a variety of points of view (viscosity) on the same issues improve the vibrancy of the analysis (Van Dijk, 1984).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Van Dijk, 1984

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Memo-writing and coding can support topic analysis to develop different perspectives of the data.

    “Another way is memo-writing and coding, which can support topic analysis to develop different perspectives of the data (Denzin & Lincoln, 2011).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Denzin & Lincoln, 2011

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Crystallisation enhances the guarantee that the outcomes are meaningful and uniform.

    “This enhances the guarantee that the outcomes are meaningful and uniform.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    By utilising the PRICE framework, scholars may ensure that their analysis is thorough and methodical, incorporating all relevant components.

    “By utilising this framework, scholars may ensure that their analysis is thorough and methodical, incorporating all relevant components.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    The PRICE model's analysis technique is methodically organised following the model, involving discovery and classification of themes from a particular standpoint.

    “The analysis technique is methodically organised following the model, involving the discovery and classification of themes from a particular standpoint.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Participant feedback on crystallisation findings, trends and interpretations can make possible more nuanced interpretations and checks that interpretations and the developed conceptual framework's subjectivity and context are correct.

    “Participant feedback on crystallisation findings, trends and interpretations can make possible more nuanced interpretations in addition to checks that interpretations and the developed conceptual framework's subjectivity and context are correct.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). The quote only partly states this claim.

    Interpretationnone given

    Edification improves the researcher's ability to clearly and fully express and convey the findings.

    “Essentially, enlightenment improves the researcher's ability to clearly and fully express and convey the findings.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Interpretationnone given

    As researchers continue to code and analyse data, they will look for patterns and connections between emerging themes to reach saturation.

    “As researchers continue to code and analyse data, they will look for patterns and connections between the emerging themes in order to reach saturation.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    The researcher's own understanding forms the basis for the relationships among concepts in the conceptual framework.

    “Therefore, the researcher's own understanding forms the basis for the relationships among concepts in the conceptual framework, which is used to establish the link between various factors in a propositional fashion.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    The PRICE model (Perspectivation, Recapitulation, Integration, Crystallisation, Edification) may be beneficial for researchers aiming to achieve saturation throughout thematic analysis.

    “The PRICE model, consisting of Perspectivation, Recapitulation, Integration, Crystallisation, and Edification, may be beneficial for researchers aiming to achieve saturation throughout the thematic analysis process.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    By employing crystallisation, the investigator can identify the fundamental themes and crucial findings.

    “By employing crystallisation, the investigator can identify the fundamental themes and crucial findings.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Researchers may not reach saturation, especially with large data sets; they may choose to desist analysis after a certain number of cases to ensure manageability and feasibility.

    “It is also possible that researchers may not reach saturation, especially in the case of large data sets; researchers may choose to desist analysis after a certain number of cases have been analysed to ensure the analysis is manageable and feasible.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    The PRICE model is a distinctive approach to thematic analysis due to its holistic approach to data analysis and utilisation of perspectivation; it can assist researchers in achieving data saturation and provide guidance for the future.

    “It is a distinctive approach to thematic analysis due to its holistic approach to data analysis and utilisation of perspectivation; it can assist researchers in achieving data saturation and provide guidance for the future.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    The process of edification commences by discerning the constituents of a comprehensive theory, their interrelationships, and the justifications for their inclusion in the overall growth of the theory.

    “The process of edification commences by discerning the constituents of a comprehensive theory, as well as their interrelationships and the justifications for their inclusion in the overall growth of the theory.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Researchers can utilise the PRICE model to achieve saturation in their thematic analysis.

    “Researchers can utilise the PRICE model to achieve saturation in their thematic analysis.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Through integration of many data sources, the researcher can discern patterns and correlations and establish links between different themes.

    “Through the integration of many data sources, the researcher can discern patterns and correlations, while also establishing links between different themes.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Revisions and expansions of existing theories ought to cause substantial shifts in the established views of academics.

    “Yet, revisions and expansions of existing theories ought to cause substantial shifts in the established views of academics (Corley & Gioia, 2011).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Corley & Gioia, 2011

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    The degree to which context is included can be evaluated using two criteria: comprehensiveness and perspectivation.

    “The degree to which context is included, which is discussed as contextualisation, can be evaluated using two criteria: comprehensiveness (i.e., are all relevant factors considered?) and perspectivation.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    The PRICE model, although based on the ongoing discussion on saturation in qualitative research, primarily incorporates principles and theories from grounded theory and other qualitative methodologies, each of which is supported by a unique philosophical standpoint.

    “The PRICE model, although based on the ongoing discussion on saturation in qualitative research, primarily incorporates principles and theories from grounded theory and other qualitative methodologies, each of which is supported by a unique philosophical standpoint.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    The ultimate phase of edification affords the researcher the opportunity to contemplate the findings and convey them to others in a lucid and succinct manner.

    “ultimate phase of “edification” affords the researcher the opportunity to contemplate the findings and convey them to others in a lucid and succinct manner.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Getting to the saturation stage of edification requires first identifying the components of a complete theory, their interconnections, and the reasons they should be considered in the development of the theory as a whole.

    “Getting to the saturation stage of edification, the components of a complete theory must first be identified, along with their interconnections and the reasons they should be considered in the development of the theory as a whole (Dubin, 1978).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Dubin, 1978

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Saturation is a crucial term that forms the foundation of the theme analysis technique and ensures a comprehensive study of all pertinent material.

    “Saturation is a crucial term that forms the foundation of the theme analysis technique discussed in the paper, since it ensures a comprehensive study of all pertinent material.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Perspectivation helps to explore the rich perspectives of the data that leads to answers regarding the importance of the research in terms of richness and context.

    “Perspectivation helps to explore the rich perspectives of the data that leads to answers regarding the importance of the research in terms of richness and context.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Premisenone given

    Researchers utilise a proposition or hypothesis as a foundation to develop a theory or model.

    “Researchers utilise a proposition or hypothesis as a foundation to develop a theory or model.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    If an incident directs research towards further aspects, it is coded and compared; if not, it is not coded because it adds bulk to coded data and nothing to theory.

    ““If yes, then the incident is coded and compared.If no, the incident is not coded since is only adds bulk to the coded data and nothing to the theory” (Glaser & Strauss, 1967, p. 111).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Glaser & Strauss, 1967, p. 111

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    The methodology provided by the PRICE model is systematic and aids researchers in discerning, classifying, and scrutinising themes within their dataset.

    “The methodology it provides is systematic and aids researchers in the process of discerning, classifying, and scrutinising themes within their dataset.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
75 of 75

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Thematic analysis and grounded theory share enough similarities that grounded theory saturation concepts can inform thematic analysis.

    “Although thematic analysis and grounded theory share some similarities, this paper draws from the grounded theory approach to saturation where relevant, to better inform the thematic analysis process.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Qualitative data contain a finite set of themes, codes, and patterns that can be exhausted.

    “Saturation in this paper refers to the point at which no new keywords, patterns, codes or themes are emerging from the collected data set, indicating that the data have been fully explored, understood and used to their full potential to achieve the required aim of the research.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Researchers can reliably identify when no new themes, codes, or patterns are emerging.

    “Saturation, under the framework of thematic analysis, denotes the point at which no further themes or patterns are discerned from the scrutinised material.”

  • The authors state this as an assumption.

    All other factors remain constant.

    “In light of this, and on the assumption that all other factors remain constant, it is advisable for the qualitative researcher to lean towards employing a wider, more contextually grounded unit of analysis rather than a more precise level of analysis (such as sentences) in order to construct the concept based on the study context.”
4 of 4

Claims other papers make about this one

Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.

  • Analytical saturation is said to conclude data collection

    Minor

    The conclusion equates saturation within the proposed framework with the end of data collection, whereas an earlier passage explicitly locates it in thematic analysis rather than the data collection phase.

1 of 1

The citation lists haven’t been fetched yet

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Authors
Naeem, M., Ozuem, W., Howell, K., & Ranfagni, S.
Affiliations
  • University of Gloucestershire (GB)
  • University for the Creative Arts (GB)
  • Northumbria University (GB)
  • University of Florence (IT)
Corresponding author
Naeem, Muhammad
ORCID
Venue
International Journal of Qualitative Methods
Publisher
SAGE Publications
Published
2024-01
Volume
23
ISSN
1609-4069 (ISSN-L)
DOI
10.1177/16094069241229777
OpenAlex
W4391513555
Semantic Scholar
dc146c240df710cfb4e59576d4d020431193962e
Cited by
294
References
128
Citations by year
2026: 154 · 2025: 114 · 2024: 26
FWCI
367.47
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
  • International Journal of Qualitative Methods (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • UCA Research Online (University for the Creative Arts) (submittedVersion)
  • DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) (submittedVersion, cc-by-sa)
  • Florence Research (University of Florence) (submittedVersion)
Topics
  • Social Sciences › Education › Qualitative Research Methods and Applications
  • Social Sciences › Sociology and Political Science › Qualitative Research Methods and Ethics
  • Social Sciences › Sociology and Political Science › Focus Groups and Qualitative Methods
Keywords
data saturation, thematic analysis, qualitative data collection, scientific contributions, saturation model, research robustness

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