How to conduct a systematic literature review?

How to conduct a systematic literature review?

To effectively conduct a systematic literature review, it is crucial to follow a structured set of instructions that encompass comprehensive planning, rigorous methodology, and meticulous documentation. The following steps are recommended when conducting a systematic literature review:

1. Define the research question: Clearly state the research question(s) you intend to answer, ensuring it is specific, open-ended, and suitable for detailed exploration. This will guide all subsequent steps. For example, “How do adolescents perceive the impact of social media on their mental health?” Break down the main question into sub-questions, such as: What are the positive and negative perceptions of social media among adolescents? How do adolescents describe their emotional responses to social media interactions? What coping strategies do adolescents use to manage social media-induced stress?
2. Develop a protocol: Outline the methodology and criteria for your review in a detailed protocol to ensure transparency. Include background information, rationales, and clearly stated objectives. Define inclusion and exclusion criteria based on the study population, context, data collection methods, and outcomes of interest. Identify and list the databases you will search, such as PubMed, PsycINFO, and Scopus. Develop keywords and search strings using Boolean operators. Create a data extraction form to capture relevant data from each study. Optionally, register your protocol with a platform like PROSPERO for enhanced transparency.
3. Conduct a comprehensive literature search: Perform a thorough search across identified databases using developed keywords and search strategy. Document the search process meticulously, including search dates, databases searched, and the number of records retrieved. This ensures a comprehensive capture of relevant studies related to your research question.
4. Screen and select studies: Apply the inclusion and exclusion criteria to filter studies. Start with an initial screening of titles and abstracts, followed by a full-text review of remaining studies for final inclusion. Document reasons for exclusion at each stage to ensure transparency and consistency.
5. Assess the quality of studies: Use standardized tools, such as the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP)for qualitative studies to assess the quality of qualitative studies. Evaluate aspects like credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. Ensure consistency and document the process and outcomes.
6. Extract data: Develop a data extraction form to systematically capture relevant data from each included study, such as study design, participant characteristics, data collection methods, themes, and findings. Use qualitative data analysis software such as ATLAS.ti for coding and theme identification.
7. Analyze and synthesize data: Identify and synthesize key themes and patterns across studies. Conduct a meta-synthesis to integrate findings and provide a comprehensive understanding of the research question. Ensure a thorough synthesis to highlight variations and commonalities across studies.
8. Report findings: Follow a structured format including an introduction, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion. Adhere to PRISMA guidelines (Page et. al 2020) for transparent reporting. Use tables, figures, and flow diagrams to illustrate findings and the study selection process.
9. Discuss implications: Interpret the findings within the context of existing literature, acknowledging limitations and suggesting areas for future research. Provide recommendations based on gathered evidence.
10. Update and maintain the review: Consider periodic updates as new studies become available to ensure findings remain current. Set up database alerts to stay informed about new research.

Conclusion

A systematic literature review rigorously answers specific research questions by evaluating and synthesizing evidence from multiple studies, providing comprehensive context and background information. Unlike other literature reviews, systematic review protocols follow a structure with predefined criteria, ensuring exhaustive and reproducible results. They adhere to guidelines like PRISMA (Page et. al 2020) for thorough reporting and trustworthy conclusions. Systematic reviews are essential in healthcare and social sciences because they help identify evidence gaps and inform policies. Regular updates keep the evidence current, supporting effective decision-making across various disciplines.

References

1. Page M J, McKenzie J E, Bossuyt P M, Boutron I, Hoffmann T C, Mulrow C D et al. The PRISMA 2020 statement: an updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews BMJ 2021; 372 :n71 doi:10.1136/bmj.n71
2. Higgins JPT, Thomas J, Chandler J, Cumpston M, Li T, Page MJ, Welch VA (editors). Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions version 6.4 (updated August 2023). Cochrane, 2023.