This thesis has a broad theme, exploring different aspects of intercultural research. The systematic review used meta-aggregation to investigate the challenges and solutions of conducting intercultural, qualitative, health research. Four synthesised findings were identified: being an ‘outsider’, retaining authenticity and meaning, the interpreter’s impact on the research, and working in culturally and linguistically diverse research teams. The importance of working with cultural experts was highlighted in the research, however this came with its own challenges of working in diverse teams. The challenges of translation and using interpreters was a strong theme, but due to three of the 12 papers having a focus on the translation process it is possible that these themes overshadow others. Further research into researchers’ experiences of conducting intercultural, qualitative, health research is required, particularly in relation to areas other than the translation process.
The empirical paper involved seven semi-structured interviews and explored how doctors in Lesotho understood and coped with their wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, five themes were identified: under pressure, unprepared and out of control; constant uncertainty and threat; Isolation and connection; attempts to cope independently and new perspectives. The challenges experienced by doctors extended beyond their working environment, often affecting their personal lives and wellbeing. Key to managing their wellbeing was the support received from other people, relying on themselves for ways to cope and reflecting on the learning that they gained through undergoing the experience. Recommendations regarding how doctors are supported with their wellbeing at work are discussed.
The final paper discusses the implications of both the systematic review and empirical paper in relation to future research and clinical practice. This final paper also includes some of the authors personal reflections on the process of undertaking this research, particularly regarding the intercultural aspects of the participant recruitment and data analysis stages.