The challenges of grounded theory

2019

Qualitative research method is adjudged a veritable tool in generating data aimed at subjective understanding of sociocultural issues facing humanity. Using archival research method, this review study strives to understand qualitative research paying particular attention to grounded theory method. I pay particular attention to the grounded theory research process. I examine the methodological strength of grounded theory research method as option in qualitative research. Finally, I route for criteria for evaluation of qualitative research.

2018

In mid-twentieth century data enquiry, qualitative methods were viewed by many scholars as impressionistic and biased, characteristics which did not support any reliability for data enquiry at this time. Within this setting, Grounded Theory surfaced as a method. The new method required theory-grounded-in-data through rigorous data coding, which gave the qualitative a place next to the quantitative throne by forcing the two methods to work together. Yet, the combination of these opposing fields of thought produced a flexible method of research, of constant action instead of stagnant data gathering and observation. Under this light, from its beginning, Grounded Theory became popular across academic fields, encompassing research in life sciences equally as in social sciences. And although many alternative formats to go about Grounded Theory have been proposed, the current leading Grounded Theorist is Kathy Charmaz. In this text, the Grounded Theory method of ​then,​ and the changes which have brought it to the ​now w​ill be summarized​. ​

Nursing Reports, 2016

The research approach of grounded theory (henceforth as GT) is one of the common qualitative methodology in social sciences and lately in Nursing which has constantly been confronted with ambiguities regarding its application and particularly its operationalization. It is attempted in this article to offer the true nature, application and measures for a more suitable application of this approach by reviewing its relevant literature in different disciplines. This article is the result of reviewing different databases through 1990 to 2011 and also referring to the main texts in GT research. At the end, it must be mentioned that although the GT research approach is an appealing method, especially in Nursing and enjoys a lot of rigor with regard to dealing with the favorite phenomena of the nurses, the researcher's expectations must be realistic about it. In addition, alongside clarification, which is a social process among a group of individuals, it can be used in presenting model and instrumentation by following the principles and also for providing examination and caring manuals and the required interventions by using the qualitative outcome analysis in order to operationalize it.

The most critical issue addressed in this paper pertains to the possibility of employing the theory of M. S. Archer in the research conducted by means of the grounded theory methodology. At first glance this operation seems hardly plausible if carried out without renouncing one of the basic tenets of the above methodological strategy. The seminal work of Glaser and Strauss in The Discovery of Grounded Theory [2009], has already signalled the necessity to constrain pre-conceptualisation before initiating research in a given field. This precept is quoted in works which treat grounded theory methodology as a major guideline. The initial acceptance of a specific theory and its related concepts might result in the scientist focusing their attention on concrete phenomena and in doing so, ultimately falling into the trap of 'data forcing'. Thereby, the consequence might well be the omission of vital, and very specific events or processes, which in another more natural situation, could freely emerge. Intuitively, we can assert that the postulate of non-assumptivity is not easy to fulfil. Apart from certain cultural codes and the conviction implanted in them in the socialisation process, researchers have some sociological points of view, for example, in the form of a generally preferred application of paradigms and theories. Moreover, they possess certain knowledge about examined fragments of reality acquired by means of external media, and constituted from both facts as well as their own interpretations. Nonetheless, they may still try to 'take in brackets' the akin propensities, and go on to register the observed phenomena accurately and objectively.

Forum: Qualitative Social Research, 2012

The genesis and development of grounded theory method (GTM) is evaluated with reference to sociology's attempt to demarcate exclusive referents of inquiry. The links of objectivist GTM to positivistic terminology and to the natural scientific distinction from "common sense" are explored. It is then considered how the biological sciences have prompted reorientation towards constructivist GTM, underpinned by the metaphysics of social constructionism. GTM has been shaped by the endeavor to attain the sense of exactitude associated with positivism, whilst also seeking exclusive referents of inquiry that are distinct from the empirical realm of the natural sciences. This has generated complex research techniques underpinned by tortuous methodological debate: eschewing the perceived requirement to define and defend an academic niche could help to facilitate the development of a more useful and pragmatic orientation to qualitative social research.

International Journal of Nursing Practice, 2006

Grounded theory is a popular research methodology that is evolving to account for a range of ontological and epistemological underpinnings. Constructivist grounded theory has its foundations in relativism and an appreciation of the multiple truths and realities of subjectivism. Undertaking a constructivist inquiry requires the adoption of a position of mutuality between researcher and participant in the research process, which necessitates a rethinking of the grounded theorists' traditional role of objective observer. Key issues for constructivist grounded theorists to consider in designing their research studies are discussed in relation to developing a partnership with participants that enables a mutual construction of meaning during interviews and a meaningful reconstruction of their stories into a grounded theory model.

2021

This publication focusses on the practices of Grounded Theory Method (GTM). The authors embrace a diverse range of stanc es in which they try to balance creativity and procedure in their application of GTM. On the one side we see an emphasis on creativity, flexibility and openness with a focus on the agency of the researcher, while on the other side there is an emphasis on the use of procedures to reach an objective description of social reality not tainted by bias. As both elements are part of the practices of GTM, the chapters in this publication cover this wider spectrum of positions within the field of GT

Grounded Theory (GT) is analyzed in the present article, paying attention to its variety. Since GT is heterogeneous, discussions over interpretation of its variety arise. Drawing on the analysis of research literature, this article attempts to answer the question if different methods or various versions of GT method lie behind the methodological variety of GT.

Introduction: The quality of qualitative research is an important issue for clinicians and researchers that use research in order to deliver high quality care. Gaining quality in qualitative research, such as grounded theory, is not an accident and is achieved by abiding a set of circumstances. The aim of this study was to identify the most important criteria in assessing the quality of grounded theory studies. Method: This is a review study done by an extensive review of literature in the form of electronic and printed materials. This paper therefore, has reviewed 10 related books and 11 related papers. Results: The result of literature review showed that compliance to methodological principles of research is the key element in achieving quality in grounded theory studies. Paying attention to dynamic research process, theoretical sampling, theoretical sensitivity, constant comparison, theoretical saturation, methodological fitness, and linking research and body of knowledge are important factors in achieving quality in grounded theory. Conclusion: Quality in grounded theory is an important issue in qualitative research. Grounded theory researchers must have a thorough understanding of methods used in research. Moreover, they must try to improve the quality of grounded theory studies by considering ontological and epistemological assumptions.

Edward Kwesi Acquah

The study seeks to examine the role of theory in qualitative research and practice placing emphasis on grounded theory. Qualitative research methodology was used for the study after a careful review and examining of literature. The study revealed that the most well-known and dependable rigorous qualitative methodology in the social sciences has proven to be grounded theory. It is recognized that the development of a theory describing social interactions requires methodical techniques to data collecting, analysis, and conceptualization. In qualitative research, it is the methodology that encourages credibility rather than validity and reliability. The advantages and qualities of grounded theory are beneficial to society. Grounded theory has been incredibly successful at collecting data, analyzing it, and creating ideas based on the researchers' actual experiences. Grounded theory can be intuitive, engaging, and can gather a lot of data. It also encourages creativity and provides a methodical approach to the examination of qualitative data. Following a set of methodical steps is required when applying grounded theory in order to produce successful qualitative research findings. The generated theory in grounded theory guides data recollection and reanalysis to assess the significance and applicability of the data collected. It is also known that generalization is a less commonly studied and regarded as a complex and contentious issue in grounded theory. In general, researchers that employ grounded theory do not begin with a hypothesis. However, the interaction between data collection, data analysis, and consequential theory contributes to the development of the theory.

International Journal of Nursing Studies, 2004

Novice qualitative researchers are often unsure regarding the analysis of their data and, where grounded theory is chosen, they may be uncertain regarding the differences that now exist between the approaches of Glaser and Strauss, who together first described the method. These two approaches are compared in relation to roots and divergences, role of induction, deduction and verification, ways in which data are coded and the format of generated theory. Personal experience of developing as a ground theorist is used to illustrate some of the key differences. A conclusion is drawn that, rather than debate relative merits of the two approaches, suggests that novice researchers need to select the method that best suits their cognitive style and develop analytic skills through doing research. r

This essay examines three methodological questions that are generally applicable to all qualitative methods. How should the usual scientific canons be reinterpreted for qualitative research? How should researchers report the procedures and canons used in their research? What evaluative criteria should be used in judging the research products? The basic argument we propose is that the criteria should be adapted to fit the procedures of the method. We demonstrate how we have done this with grounded theory and suggest criteria for evaluating studies done in this mode. We suggest that other qualitative researchers might be similarly specific about their procedures and evaluative criteria. Grounded theory is an interpretative research methodology frequently used by social science researchers seeking to discover the underlying social processes shaping interaction. The methodology is useful to create knowledge about the behavioural patterns of a group The aim of essay was to discuss some practical issues that the prospective grounded theory researcher planning a small-scale project may consider Discussion focuses on the basic premises, choosing a version of grounded theory, the research problem, the purpose of study, the research question and the place of the literature in a study GROUNDED THEORY 3

… Journal of Qualitative …, 2006

Constructivist grounded theory is a popular method for research studies primarily in the disciplines of psychology, education, and nursing. In this article, the authors aim to locate the roots of constructivist grounded theory and then trace its development. They examine key grounded theory texts to discern their ontological and epistemological orientation. They find Strauss and Corbin"s texts on grounded theory to possess a discernable thread of constructivism in their approach to inquiry. They also discuss Charmaz"s landmark work on constructivist grounded theory relative to her positioning of the researcher in relation to the participants, analysis of the data, and rendering of participants" experiences into grounded theory. Grounded theory can be seen as a methodological spiral that begins with Glaser and Strauss" original text and continues today. The variety of epistemological positions that grounded theorists adopt are located at various points on this spiral and are reflective of their underlying ontologies.