Table 1.

Explanation of over-arching conceptual categories and domains

Over-arching conceptual category	Explanation
Principles	Values that orient and rule the conduct of a group.
Foundational components	Core elements that comprise patient engagement.
Contexts	Resources or decisions that are external to but inform the engagement process.
Actions	Activities (eg, behaviours, phases, advisory bodies) involved in the actual conduct of engagement and associated research.
Outcomes	Results of engagement and its associated research.
Organisational levels	Different organisational levels at which engagement may occur in a research organisation.

Domain	Elements pertain to…
Intrapersonal	Individual-level knowledge, perceptions, attitudes and beliefs.
Interpersonal	Relationships with other people.
Process	Carrying out the engagement or broader research.
Environmental	Research or organisational policies, cultures, perceptions.
Health systems and outcomes	Health systems and health outcomes.