Reflecting on reflections of Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA): exemplar experiences and recommendations for new researchers in sport and coaching

Abstract

There is a growing body of research in sport and sports coaching in particular, being conducted with qualitative methods. Critics have however, identified a philosophical misalignment of methods being used. Many of these studies employ Thematic Analysis (TA) to probe and analyse their data without a clear appreciation of how the different stages of the process associate to the three different TA options: i. Codebook, ii. Reliability Coding, or iii. Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Thus, the purpose of our article is to provide neophyte sports coaching researchers with an in depth understanding of one TA method; Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA) and guidance on how to conduct an RTA study that is coherent with the philosophy that underpins it. In doing so, an exemplar of a sports coaching RTA study is provided by the lead author (PhD student) with reflections to illustrate the challenges and learning development that engaging in the RTA study provided. These are supplemented by further reflections on the process by the second author (his PhD supervisor) to further explore related issues to aid the learning process. Consequently, this paper offers an original ‘double hermeneutic’ insight into RTA that in turn provides knowledge and guidance for those considering this method. Recommendations are made to maximise the quality of future studies in sport and coaching and avoid any potential criticism of philosophical misalignment