How and by whom are multiple language-related issues managed in transnational qualitative research using content analysis? A scoping review.

BACKGROUND

Multilingual, transnational qualitative research is increasingly common across the health and social sciences. However, it presents significant methodological challenges related to translation, validity and data interpretation, which remain insufficiently explored in the literature. Although some recommendations exist regarding research protocol translation, the role of interpreters and the timing of translation, no comprehensive approaches have been established to guide consistent language management across all phases of the research.

OBJECTIVE

To map the strategies researchers use to manage languages during data collection preparation, data collection, and content analysis in transnational qualitative studies.

INFORMATION SOURCES: MEDLINE-PubMed, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycInfo, and Scopus were searched up to October 2024.

METHODS

A scoping review of qualitative studies using content analysis, conducted in various countries and languages. Data were extracted and summarised according to how languages were managed across three phases of the research process: data collection preparation, conduction, and content analysis. Using both detailed and overarching approaches, key patterns in researchers' practices were synthesised narratively.

RESULTS

Between 2001 and 2024, 123 transnational qualitative studies were published. Only 35 described language management during preparation for data collection, revealing two patterns: developing the interview guide in a single language (typically English) and then translating it, or developing it simultaneously in all study languages. During data collection, local languages were predominantly used, while 33 studies reported who conducted the interviews, involving either general research personnel or individuals with explicit language expertise. Language management during content analysis was described in nearly half of the studies. Overall, only 11 studies reported practices across all three phases, most commonly following a process of instrument development in English, data collection and transcription in local languages, and translation into English for analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Transnational qualitative research using content analysis is increasing, yet language management issues remain insufficiently reported. An analysis of the methods described in available studies identified recurring patterns across the three main phases of the research process. These patterns may represent a first step towards a critical discussion on developing methodological guidelines, reporting standards, and best practices to promote harmonised methodological guidance and strengthen the validity and reliability of transnational qualitative research.

REGISTRATION: Not registered.