Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA)

Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) is a research approach used to understand how individuals experience and make sense of specific events or situations in their lives. It involves in-depth exploration of personal viewpoints to uncover the meaning behind their experiences. Researchers typically gather detailed, first-person accounts—often through interviews—and then analyze these narratives carefully to identify common themes and insights. IPA aims to provide a rich, nuanced understanding of personal perspectives, emphasizing the subjective nature of experience while interpreting what these experiences reveal about the individual's internal world.