Grounded theory

Definition

Grounded theory is a qualitative research methodology that involves developing theories through the systematic collection and analysis of data. It emphasizes generating theories that are grounded in empirical evidence, rather than testing existing theories, making it particularly useful for exploring complex social processes and phenomena.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Grounded theory was developed by sociologists Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss in the 1960s as a way to create theories that are rooted in actual data.
2. This methodology involves an iterative process of data collection and analysis, where findings inform subsequent rounds of data collection to refine emerging theories.
3. Researchers using grounded theory often utilize coding techniques to systematically analyze qualitative data, with open coding being the initial phase.
4. It prioritizes participant perspectives and experiences, providing a rich understanding of social phenomena by considering context and meaning.
5. Grounded theory can be applied across various disciplines, including sociology, psychology, education, and health sciences, making it a versatile tool for researchers.

Review Questions

• How does grounded theory differ from traditional hypothesis-driven research approaches?
  • Grounded theory differs from traditional hypothesis-driven research by focusing on generating new theories from data rather than testing pre-existing theories. In grounded theory, researchers collect qualitative data and analyze it iteratively, allowing themes and patterns to emerge naturally. This contrasts with traditional approaches that start with a hypothesis and seek to confirm or reject it through data collection.
• Discuss the role of theoretical sampling in the grounded theory approach and its significance in theory development.
  • Theoretical sampling plays a crucial role in grounded theory as it allows researchers to collect data that is specifically relevant to the developing theory. Unlike random sampling methods, theoretical sampling directs the researcher to select cases that will enhance understanding of particular aspects of the emerging theory. This targeted approach ensures that the final theory is robust and deeply connected to empirical evidence.
• Evaluate the impact of using grounded theory on understanding complex social phenomena within diverse research settings.
  • Using grounded theory significantly enhances the understanding of complex social phenomena by grounding findings in real-world experiences and contexts. This methodology encourages researchers to remain open to unexpected insights, fostering a more nuanced understanding of participants' perspectives. Its adaptability across various disciplines allows for rich explorations of different social settings, leading to comprehensive theories that reflect the intricacies of human behavior and social interaction.

Related terms

Qualitative Research: A research method focused on understanding human behavior and the reasons that govern such behavior, often involving interviews, observations, and content analysis.

Theoretical Sampling: A sampling technique used in grounded theory where data collection is guided by the emerging theory, allowing researchers to collect information from specific cases that will help develop or refine the theory.

Open Coding: The first step in grounded theory analysis where data is broken down into discrete parts, closely examined, and compared for similarities and differences to identify initial categories.