Grounded Theory

Definition

Grounded theory is a qualitative research methodology that aims to develop theories based on data collected from the field rather than starting with pre-existing hypotheses. It involves systematic data collection and analysis, where researchers continuously compare data, codes, and categories to build a theoretical framework that is grounded in the real-world experiences of participants. This approach emphasizes the generation of theories that are closely tied to the context of the research and encourages flexibility as new insights emerge.

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 response to the limitations of existing research methods.
2. The methodology includes various coding phases: open coding, axial coding, and selective coding, which help structure the analysis process.
3. It prioritizes participant perspectives, allowing researchers to uncover new insights that might be overlooked by traditional methods.
4. Grounded theory can be used in various fields including sociology, psychology, and health research, making it highly versatile.
5. The findings from grounded theory research can lead to practical applications by providing actionable insights based on real-world contexts.

Review Questions

• How does grounded theory differ from traditional research methods in terms of theory development?
  • Grounded theory differs from traditional research methods by emphasizing the development of theories directly from data collected in the field rather than testing pre-existing theories. This approach allows for greater flexibility as it adapts to the insights gained during the research process. Traditional methods often begin with a hypothesis that guides data collection, while grounded theory seeks to generate new theories that reflect participants' actual experiences.
• Discuss the role of coding in grounded theory and how it contributes to the overall analysis process.
  • Coding plays a crucial role in grounded theory as it helps researchers categorize and interpret qualitative data. The process begins with open coding, where data is broken down into discrete parts to identify patterns or themes. Next, axial coding connects these themes to reveal relationships, followed by selective coding which focuses on core categories that form the basis of the emerging theory. This systematic approach ensures that analysis is thorough and closely tied to the data collected.
• Evaluate the implications of using grounded theory in qualitative research across various disciplines and how it shapes our understanding of complex social phenomena.
  • Using grounded theory in qualitative research allows for a deeper understanding of complex social phenomena by grounding theories in real-world experiences. This approach enables researchers to uncover nuances and subtleties that traditional methods may miss, thereby enriching our comprehension of human behavior and societal trends. Its versatility across disciplines such as sociology, psychology, and health research means that findings can lead to practical applications tailored to specific contexts, ultimately influencing policy-making and practice within those fields.

Related terms

Thematic Analysis: A method for identifying, analyzing, and reporting patterns (themes) within qualitative data, often used alongside grounded theory.

Coding:

The process of categorizing qualitative data into themes or concepts, crucial for grounded theory development.

Constant Comparative Method: A key technique in grounded theory where data is continuously compared to refine categories and develop a theory.