This book is a step-by-step guide to conducting qualitative meta-analysis (QMA). This flexible and generic method synthesizes the findings of several research studies investigating similar phenomena. Given the ever-increasing number of qualitative studies in the social sciences, QMA answers the need for rigorous secondary analysis that offers a more conclusive picture of a field of inquiry.  The brief, practical texts in the Essentials of Qualitative Methods series introduce social science and psychology researchers to key approaches to qualitative methods, offering exciting opportunities to gather in-depth qualitative data and to develop rich and useful findings.  About the Essentials of Qualitative Methods series Even for experienced researchers, selecting and correctly applying the right method can be challenging. In this groundbreaking series, leading experts in qualitative methods provide clear, crisp, and comprehensive descriptions of their approach, including its methodological integrity, and its benefits and limitations. Each book includes numerous examples to enable readers to quickly and thoroughly grasp how to leverage these valuable methods.