Guidelines for conducting rigorous health care psychosocial cross-cultural/language qualitative research

Soc Work Public Health. 2015;30(1):75-87. doi: 10.1080/19371918.2014.938394. Epub 2014 Nov 6.

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to synthesize and chronicle the authors' experiences as four bilingual and bicultural researchers, each experienced in conducting cross-cultural/cross-language qualitative research. Through narrative descriptions of experiences with Latinos, Iranians, and Hmong refugees, the authors discuss their rewards, challenges, and methods of enhancing rigor, trustworthiness, and transparency when conducting cross-cultural/cross-language research. The authors discuss and explore how to effectively manage cross-cultural qualitative data, how to effectively use interpreters and translators, how to identify best methods of transcribing data, and the role of creating strong community relationships. The authors provide guidelines for health care professionals to consider when engaging in cross-cultural qualitative research.

Keywords: Culture/cultural competence; immigrants/migrants; language/linguistics; reflexivity; translation.

MeSH terms

  • Asian
  • Communication Barriers
  • Cultural Competency*
  • Emigrants and Immigrants
  • Guidelines as Topic*
  • Hispanic or Latino
  • Humans
  • Iran / ethnology
  • Language
  • Qualitative Research*
  • Refugees