Kamaruddin, Amalia and Mohd Arifin, Siti Roshaidai and Azahari, Nur Aliya and Muhammad, Noor Azimah and Pratiwi, Cesa Septiana and Astuti, Andari Wuri and Suryaningsih, Endang Koni and Lee, Siew Pien and Abdul Hamid, Siti Hazariah and Wan Mamat, Wan Hasliza and Sulistyaningsih, - and Rokhanawati, Dewi and Kartini, Farida and Hidayat, Asri and Anjarwati, - and Mufdlilah, - (2026) Applying framework analysis in qualitative health research: a practical guide using perinatal depression and anxiety data. International Journal of Care Scholars, 9 (2). pp. 57-70. ISSN 2600-898X
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Abstract
Background: Framework analysis is widely used in qualitative health research, particularly in nursing and midwifery studies. However, practical guidance on its application remains limited. This paper aims to illustrate the application of framework analysis using a qualitative study exploring perinatal women’s and their spouses’ experiences of depression and anxiety. Methods: Data were obtained from in-depth interviews with 20 perinatal women and 15 men (spouses) attending antenatal or postnatal check-up at two purposively selected teaching hospitals in Malaysia. Three interrelated stages of framework analysis were applied to analyze the data: data management; descriptive accounts; and explanatory accounts. Results: Using framework analysis as a structured and iterative approach, data were systematically coded, categorised, and refined to generate three themes: adjusting to a new period of life, dealing with perinatal distress, and mobilising needs and support. Women reported emotional and psychological distress linked to social and contextual stressors, whereas spouses emphasised caregiving roles and practical responsibilities. Coping strategies included support systems, help-seeking, and spiritual practices. Both groups supported digital and spouse-inclusive interventions, particularly those that are accessible, trustworthy, and responsive to users’ needs. Conclusion: This paper provides a practical illustration for applying framework analysis in qualitative health research. While the empirical findings offer contextual insights, the primary contribution of this paper lies in providing a clear and accessible methodological guide to support researchers in applying framework analysis in a structured, transparent, and reflexive manner.
| Item Type: | Article (Journal) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Framework analysis; Perinatal women; Depression; Anxiety; Spouses, Qualitative |
| Subjects: | R Medicine > RG Gynecology and obstetrics R Medicine > RG Gynecology and obstetrics > RG560 Psychology of pregnancy R Medicine > RG Gynecology and obstetrics > RG940 Maternal care. Prenatal care services R Medicine > RT Nursing |
| Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): | Kulliyyah of Nursing > Department of Special Care Nursing Kulliyyah of Nursing |
| Depositing User: | Dr. Siti Roshaidai Mohd Arifin |
| Date Deposited: | 09 Jun 2026 08:25 |
| Last Modified: | 09 Jun 2026 08:25 |
| Queue Number: | 2026-06-Q3638 |
| URI: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/129248 |
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