Grounded Theory
A systematic qualitative methodology designed to generate a theory directly from the collected data, rather than testing a pre-existing hypothesis.
What is Grounded Theory?
Developed by Glaser and Strauss, Grounded Theory relies on an iterative process of concurrent data collection and analysis. It utilizes techniques like theoretical sampling, constant comparison, and sequential coding (open, axial, selective) to inductively build a dense, explanatory theoretical framework that is firmly 'grounded' in the empirical observations of human interaction.
Why Grounded Theory Matters
Grounded theory is vital when examining social processes for which no adequate theory currently exists. It provides a highly rigorous, structured approach to qualitative inquiry that results in predictive and explanatory models rather than just descriptive summaries.
Example
A researcher wanting to understand how newly released inmates reintegrate into society uses grounded theory to observe and interview parolees, ultimately developing a new theory of 'Identity Renegotiation Under Stigma.'
Common Mistakes
- Conducting an extensive literature review before analyzing data, which forces the researcher into preconceived theoretical frameworks and violates the core inductive nature of the method.
- Calling any qualitative study that generates a theory 'grounded theory' without actually employing its rigorous comparative methods and theoretical sampling.