Qualitative comparative analysis and a hermeneutic approach to interview data

Abstract

Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) is a comparative tool that uses Boolean algebra for a systematic analysis of similarities and differences across cases. Most commonly, it is used causally in macrosocial study to investigate under which conditions a state of affairs is realized. Nevertheless, although not commonly recognized, the method has no in-built premises validating only causal applications. Here, we apply QCA to microsocial interview data on 14 teenagers who reflect upon themselves and the world through artistic practices. Our use of QCA is a process of categorization where several analyses, at various levels, follow each other, helping us to look at the cases from different angles and accordingly arrive at new ideas about their interrelations. The use of QCA forced us to penetrate deep into the principles of interpreting and organizing data, which we consider a major benefit of the method.