Integrating Multi-Source Qualitative Data Using Causal Loop Diagrams: A Methodological Framework for Developing Systems Thinking Publisher



Babaei Aghbolagh M ; Azizi F ; Asghari A ; Mohamadi E ; Mobinizadeh M ; Mostafavi H ; Olyaeemanesh A
Source: International Journal of Qualitative Methods Published:2026

Abstract

Health systems, as complex adaptive systems, are influenced by the intertwined interactions among various actors and policies interactions that often defy explanation through linear analytical approaches. This article presents the methodological framework that integrates multi-source qualitative data through the use of system dynamics causal loop diagrams, thereby enabling the researcher to progressively develop and refine a systems-thinking perspective. Qualitative data were obtained from four sources: a literature review, semi-structured interviews with managers and experts, analysis of official documents from Social Security Organization of Iran, and an expert panel. Each method made a distinct contribution to shaping the dimensions of systems thinking: The literature review contributed to identifying key variables and shaping the initial model; document analysis supported understanding the organizational structure and further contextualizing the model; interviews enabled the discovery of organizational behavior as well as nonlinear and delayed relationships; and the expert panel facilitated the uncovering of hidden drivers underlying system behavior.The proposed “Integrating Qualitative Data for Systems Thinking” (IQDST) framework demonstrated that the convergence of these diverse data sources enabled a transition in the researcher’s analytical perspective, from descriptive analysis to structural and institutional analysis, while also identifying complex feedback loops. This article highlights that, structured integration of diverse qualitative data sources not only enriches conceptual models and enhances the ability to anticipate indirect and long-term consequences of policies but also serves as an effective mechanism for strengthening researchers’ systems thinking capacity during model development processes. © The Author(s) 2026. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/) which permits non-commercial use, reproduction and distribution of the work without further permission provided the original work is attributed as specified on the SAGE and Open Access pages (https://us.sagepub.com/en-us/nam/open-access-at-sage).