Realist Synthesis

Realist synthesis is a method of analyzing research that focuses on understanding how and why programs or policies work in specific contexts. Instead of just asking if something is effective, it looks at the underlying mechanisms—like beliefs, resources, or relationships—that produce outcomes. By examining different situations, realist synthesis seeks to explain what works, for whom, and under what conditions. This helps policymakers and practitioners design more effective interventions by considering the complexities of real-world settings.