Table 1 CGT analytical process

Initial coding

Conduct segment-by-segment coding to separate the data into smaller units and capture a wide range of actions, meanings, and expressions while remaining closely tied to adolescents’ experiences. Aim to retain all possible interpretations without imposing preconceived categories.

Throughout the process: Engage in memo writing to document analytic decisions and the procedure (or process) of constant comparison [28], iteratively compare codes, categories, and data to refine our understanding and ensure that the analysis remains grounded in data.

Focused coding

Identify and group the most significant initial codes to begin forming broader conceptual categories. Refine codes by eliminating redundancy, merging conceptually similar ideas, and identifying gaps that need further exploration.

Axial coding

Explore relationships between categories, subcategories, and contextual factors and examine the conditions, actions, and consequences associated with the central phenomena. This allows us to deepen our understanding of how various factors within the Creativity Camp environment and beyond influenced participants’ experiences.

Theoretical coding

Integrate core categories into a cohesive framework to construct an emerging theory and identify the central phenomena that connected and explained the data.