Engaging the Senses in Qualitative Research via Multimodal Coding: Triangulating Transcript, Audio, and Video Data in a Study With Sexual and Gender Minority Youth

Abstract

The variety of formats in which qualitative data may be collected have been explored within the methodological literature. Yet, the multiple options for coding these data formats have not been comprehensively detailed. While transcript analysis is widely used across disciplines, it may have limitations—particularly for research involving marginalized populations. This paper presents a multimodal coding approach as a methodological innovation for triangulating three data formats (transcript, audio, and video), detailed through the application of this analytic approach during a qualitative study exploring media engagement with sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY). Nineteen semi-structured interviews with SGMY were filmed and transcribed. Nine independent coders then utilized the innovative multimodal approach to code the three data formats using a constructivist grounded theory framework. Some codes were similar across modalities, such as those related to safety issues and finding identity and community through media. Others differed between modalities, such as those related to participant affect, perceived contradictions, discrepancies between verbal statements and body language, level of comfort and engagement, and distress when discussing traumatic experiences. Video coding captured the broadest range of emotions and experiences from marginalized youth, while transcripts provided the most straightforward form of data for coding. Multimodal coding may be applicable across qualitative approaches to enrich analyses and account for potential biases, thereby enhancing analytical lenses in qualitative inquiry. Methodological strategies for coding and integrating data types are discussed.

Towards an integrative self: a digital photo elicitation study of resilience among key marginalized populations of sexual and gender minority youth

“…Each interview was coded twice by two independent coders who were trained graduate students from ethnically diverse backgrounds identifying primarily as SGMY. Given that constructivist grounded theory situates the researcher as co-constructing meaning and considers context (Charmaz, 2014;Priya, 2019), annotations were used to describe processes occurring in the research (such as interview interruptions, or instances when interview content and nonverbal communication were discordant as well as the researcher's reactions and interpretations) and captured in the multimodal analytic process designed by the first and second authors in a previous study with SGMY (Craig et al, 2021). Initial coding consisted of systematically identifying codes in vivo based on the photos, interview videos and transcripts (Charmaz, 2014).…”

Assessing the Fidelity of an Affirmative Cognitive Behavioral Group Intervention

“…Therefore, the AFFIRM intervention focuses on helping participants understand how they have internalized (that is, incorporated into their thinking patterns) external systemic anti-LGBTQ+ oppression, and teaches CBT techniques (such as thought records, ABCD method, thought stopping) and activities (exp. self-compassion, connecting to affirmative resources) to embrace an LGBTQ+ affirming worldview ( Craig et al., 2021 ). AFFIRM consists of eight two-hour group sessions: Session 1–2: Introduction to CBT and exploring minority stressors; Session 3–4: cognitive restructuring; Sessions 5–6: coping skills, behavioral activation, setting goals and building hope; Sessions 7–8: social support, self-compassion and integration of new skills.…”

Hypermasculinity in the Croods Film: A Descriptive Study

“…The first data, the primary data sourced from the video and transcript of the 3D animated film entitled The Croods. Video and transcripts were used for master data because they provided clear data to collect and analyze (Craig et al, 2021). Regarding the secondary data, websites that review the film are also considered to be used (Hasley & Gregg, 2010).…”