In thematic analysis, the _____ position refers to the philosophical stance regarding the nature of reality and what can be known about it.

In thematic analysis, the epistemological position refers to the philosophical stance regarding the nature of reality and what can be known about it. It tells researchers whether they see reality as fixed and discoverable or as socially constructed and interpreted. This stance shapes how themes are identified, whether they are seen as objective patterns or subjective meanings. For example, a realist epistemology would treat themes as reflecting real, underlying phenomena, while a constructivist epistemology would view them as co‑created by participants and researchers. Choosing an epistemological position helps keep the analysis coherent and transparent.