Aim: To synthesize qualitative studies to better understand a condition or phenomenon, or to generate models/frameworks
Synonyms and Subtypes: qualitative synthesis, thematic synthesis, critical-interpretative synthesis, grounded theory synthesis, meta-ethnography
Notes about Methodology
Approach to the search depends on subtype (may not be systematic if goal is to be interpretive)
ENTREQ (Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research) statement is available to provide a checklist similar to PRISMA
Barbour, R. S., & Barbour, M. (2003). Evaluating and synthesizing qualitative research: the need to develop a distinctive approach. J Eval Clin Pract, 9(2), 179-186. View full text
Barnett-Page, E., & Thomas, J. (2009). Methods for the synthesis of qualitative research: a critical review. BMC Medical Research Methodology, 9, 59 View full text
Tong, A., Flemming, K., McInnes, E., Oliver, S., & Craig, J. (2012). Enhancing transparency in reporting the synthesis of qualitative research: ENTREQ. BMC Medical Research Methodology, 12, 181. View full text
Below is a reference hat may serve as and example of a quality project.
Seaman, A. T., Steffen, M., Doo, T., Healy, H. S., & Solimeo, S. L. (2018). Metasynthesis of patient attitudes toward bone densitometry. J Gen Intern Med. View full text