Understanding the basics of Grounded Theory Research Design: A Comprehensive Guide for Researchers

In the paradigm of qualitative research methodologies, grounded theory stands as a beacon of exploration and discovery. Born out of the collaborative efforts of sociologists Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss in the 1960s, this approach has become a cornerstone for researchers seeking to unearth rich, contextually grounded theories directly from the complexities of the data.

As we try to understand the fundamentals of grounded theory, it’s essential to understand its basics—its essence, methodologies, importance and the unique way it unveils the intricacies of human experiences and social phenomena. Grounded Theory is not just a research method; it’s a mindset, a systematic approach that allows theories to organically emerge from the data rather than being imposed upon it.

In this blog post, we will discuss the central aspects of grounded theory, exploring why it’s called “grounded,” the inductive nature of the approach, and its distinctive features that make it a powerful tool in the qualitative Research Resources. We shall move through its history, the different perspectives that researchers bring to the table, and the major fields of study where grounded theory has left an indelible mark.

Whether you are new to the grounded theory or seeking a deeper understanding of its nuances, this blog post will equip you with the foundational knowledge needed to appreciate the intricacies and complexity of this qualitative research design. This post will mainly touch on the following areas:

1. What is grounded theory research design?
2. Why is it called grounded theory research design?
3. Various definitions of grounded theory research design
4. What are the common themes emerged from these various definitions?
5. Understanding of grounded theory research design from different perspectives
6. A brief history of grounded theory research design
7. What are the major fields of study in which grounded theory research design is used?
8. Can grounded theory qualitative research design be used in health care?
9. What are the key characteristics/features of a grounded theory research design?
10. What are the types of grounded theory research design?
11. What is the main aim/purpose of a grounded theory research design?

These topics are discussed here in detail.

What is grounded theory research design?

Grounded theory is a qualitative research methodology that aims to develop theories from the data itself, rather than testing pre-existing hypotheses. The approach was developed by sociologists Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss in the 1960s. Grounded theory is particularly useful when researchers want to understand social phenomena in their natural context and generate theories that are grounded in the data collected. Grounded theory is widely used in various disciplines, including sociology, psychology, nursing, and management studies, to explore and understand complex social phenomena.

It is a systematic research method that involves the collection and analysis of data to generate a theory about a social phenomenon. It is an inductive approach, meaning that the theory is developed from the data, rather than being tested against a pre-existing hypothesis. It is often used to study new or emerging phenomena or to explore areas where there is little existing theory. It can also be used to deepen our understanding of existing theories.

Why is it called grounded theory research design?

The term “grounded theory” reflects the foundational principle of this research design, emphasizing the grounded nature of the generated theories in the data collected from the research context. and as the name suggests a theory-building process firmly rooted in empirical observations and data. The term “grounded theory” was coined by sociologists Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss in their 1967 book, “The Discovery of Grounded Theory: Strategies for Qualitative Research.” The term reflects the method’s emphasis on developing theories that are firmly grounded in empirical data, rather than being based on preconceived notions or existing theories. Here are the key reasons why it is called “grounded theory”:

1. Grounded in data: Unlike traditional deductive research, where hypotheses are formulated beforehand and tested with data, grounded theory starts with the data. The theories generated are “grounded” in the sense that they emerge from, and are closely tied to, the empirical evidence collected during the study.
2. Inductive approach: Grounded theory follows an inductive approach, allowing theories to emerge naturally from the data through systematic analysis. This contrasts with deductive approaches, where researchers start with existing theories and seek to confirm or refute them.
3. Constant comparative method: The constant comparative method, a hallmark of grounded theory, involves continuously comparing new data with existing data. This iterative process helps in the identification of patterns and the development of categories and concepts, ensuring that the theory is grounded in the ongoing analysis of the data.
4. Theoretical sampling: Theoretical sampling is another key feature of grounded theory. Researchers purposefully select participants or collect data based on emerging theoretical insights. This iterative sampling process contributes to the development of a theory that is grounded in the evolving understanding of the research context.
5. Emphasis on empirical evidence: Grounded theory places a strong emphasis on using empirical evidence to construct theories. The aim is to derive insights directly from the field, ensuring that the resulting theory has a solid foundation in the realities observed during the research.
6. Saturation: The concept of saturation in grounded theory signifies that data collection continues until no new information or themes emerge. The idea is to reach a point where the theory is saturated with the available data, reinforcing the grounded nature of the theory in the richness and depth of the collected information.

In summary, the term “grounded theory” encapsulates the essence of a research design that prioritizes building theories based on the grounded realities of the observed social phenomena, ensuring that the resulting insights are firmly rooted in the data collected during the study.

Various definitions of grounded theory research design postulated by different authors

Grounded theory, being a methodology with roots in sociology and qualitative research, has been defined and described by various authors over the years. Different scholars may emphasize different aspects of grounded theory, but common themes usually revolve around its inductive nature, systematic data analysis, and the emergence of theories grounded in empirical evidence. Here are several definitions from different authors:

1. Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss (Founders of Grounded Theory) have defined the term grounded theory as a general research methodology that guides researchers regarding what to pay attention to and what to ignore in data (Glaser & Strauss, 1967).
2. Anselm Strauss and Juliet Corbin argue that grounded theory is a research method that will enable you to develop a theory which offers a systematic explanation about the main concern of the population under study (Corbin & Strauss, 1990).
3. Kathy Charmaz refers it to as a set of systematic inductive methods for conducting qualitative research aimed toward theory development. The term grounded theory denotes dual referents: (a) a method consisting of flexible methodological strategies and (b) the products of this type of inquiry.”
4. According to Glaser, grounded theory is the discovery of theory from data systematically obtained from social research.”
5. Corbin and Strauss conclude that grounded theory allows the researcher to develop a theoretical account of the general features of a topic while simultaneously grounding the account in empirical observations or data (Strauss & Corbin, 1998)..

Though different authors may have used slightly different language to express these concepts, nevertheless, the overarching principles remain consistent as these definitions highlight the core aspects of grounded theory research design.

What are the common themes emerged from these various definitions?

While going through these various definitions methodically, meticulously and iteratively, it is revealed that despite several variations in these definitions, there are some common themes emerged across them:

• Inductive approach: Grounded theory is an inductive approach, meaning that theory is developed from the data rather than being tested against a pre-existing hypothesis.
• Systematic methodology: Grounded theory is a systematic methodology, with a set of procedures that guide the researcher through the process of data analysis and theory development.
• Reflexivity: Reflexivity is important in grounded theory research, as the researcher’s own experiences and biases can shape the theory that emerges from the data.
• Iterative process: Grounded theory research is an iterative process, with the researcher constantly moving back and forth between data collection and analysis.
• Theory generation: The goal of grounded theory research is to generate theory from the data.

These common themes highlight the core principles of grounded theory research, which is a powerful tool for generating new knowledge from qualitative data.

Understanding of grounded theory research design from different perspectives

Understanding grounded theory research design from different perspectives involves examining how scholars and researchers in various fields perceive and apply this qualitative research methodology. Different perspectives shed light on the versatility and adaptability of grounded theory across disciplines. Here’s an exploration of how grounded theory is understood from different viewpoints:

1. Sociological perspective:

Grounded theory is seen as a valuable method for exploring and understanding social processes and phenomena. Sociologists appreciate grounded theory for its ability to uncover hidden patterns, interactions, and the development of social structures. They often see grounded theory as a powerful qualitative research approach for understanding social phenomena. It is valued for its ability to uncover the complexities of human behavior and interactions in their natural context. Sociologists might use grounded theory to explore social constructs, interactions, and the development of social structures. Applications could range from studying family dynamics to the formation of social movements.

2. Psychological perspective:

Psychologists view grounded theory as a means to gain deep insights into human experiences, emotions, and behaviors. It is applied to study psychological phenomena, subjective experiences, and the underlying factors influencing mental health. Psychologists often view grounded theory as a method that allows for a deep exploration of human experiences, emotions, and behaviors. It is valued for its ability to provide rich insights into the subjective aspects of psychological phenomena. Psychologists might employ grounded theory to explore themes related to mental health, the development of psychological disorders, or the experiences of specific populations. Applications could include understanding the coping mechanisms of individuals facing trauma.

3. Educational perspective:

Educators see grounded theory as a tool for investigating educational processes, learning environments, and student experiences. Grounded theory is employed to explore teaching methods, student engagement, and the impact of educational policies on diverse educational settings. Grounded theory is recognized as a method suitable for exploring educational processes, student experiences, and the dynamics of learning environments. Educators appreciate its potential to uncover underlying patterns in educational settings. Grounded theory in education might be used to investigate teaching methods, student engagement, or the impact of educational policies. Research could focus on phenomena such as the development of effective learning strategies among students.

4. Nursing perspective:

In nursing, grounded theory is highly regarded for its applicability to healthcare research, particularly in understanding patient experiences and healthcare processes. It is used to explore topics such as patient care, communication in healthcare, and the experiences of healthcare professionals. It is widely embraced in nursing research for its applicability to exploring healthcare processes, patient experiences, and the dynamics of healthcare settings. Nurses value its capacity to generate practical and context-specific insights. In nursing, grounded theory might be applied to investigate patient care processes, healthcare communication, or the experiences of healthcare professionals. Research could focus on topics such as the coping mechanisms of patients with chronic illnesses.

5. Management studies perspective:

Researchers in management studies see grounded theory as a valuable approach for investigating organizational behavior, leadership, and workplace dynamics. It is applied to explore topics like organizational culture, team interactions, and the emergence of leadership qualities in diverse workplace settings. It is seen as a valuable tool for understanding organizational behavior, leadership, and the dynamics of workplace relationships. Researchers in management studies appreciate its flexibility in exploring diverse aspects of organizational life. In management studies, grounded theory may be utilized to explore leadership styles, organizational culture, or team dynamics. Researchers might investigate phenomena such as the emergence of leadership qualities in diverse workplace settings.

6. Interdisciplinary perspective:

Scholars working at the intersection of multiple disciplines value grounded theory for its interdisciplinary applicability. Grounded theory can be used to bridge gaps between disciplines, providing a common qualitative research framework for investigating multifaceted phenomena.

In a nutshell, understanding grounded theory research design from different perspectives reveals its versatility as a qualitative research approach. Whether applied in sociology, psychology, education, nursing, management studies, anthropology, or interdisciplinary research, grounded theory offers a flexible and nuanced method for exploring complex social and human phenomena across diverse contexts. The adaptability of grounded theory underscores its broad utility in generating context-specific and rich qualitative insights.

Different researchers and disciplines perceive grounded theory as a versatile and adaptable approach that can be applied to diverse research questions. The variations in its application across fields highlight the flexibility of grounded theory in capturing the intricacies of human experiences and social phenomena within specific contexts. The method’s widespread acceptance underscores its relevance in generating context-specific knowledge across various academic domains.

A brief historical background of grounded theory research design

Grounded theory, a systematic methodology for generating theory from qualitative data, has a rich and evolving history. Its origins can be traced back to the mid-20th century, when sociologists Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss embarked on a study of the experiences of terminally ill patients. This study, published in 1965 as “Awareness of Dying,” marked a significant turning point in qualitative research methodology.

So grounded theory research design has its roots in the field of sociology and was developed in the 1960s. The methodology emerged as a response to the perceived limitations of existing research methods and a desire for a systematic approach to theory development from qualitative data.

• The Awareness of Dying study and the emergence of grounded theory

Glaser and Strauss’s work on the Awareness of Dying study challenged the prevailing deductive approach to social science research, which emphasized testing pre-existing hypotheses against empirical data. Instead, they adopted an inductive approach, allowing the theory to emerge from the data itself. This inductive approach, coupled with their systematic analysis of the data, laid the foundation for grounded theory research.

In 1967, Glaser and Strauss published their seminal work, “The Discovery of Grounded Theory: Strategies for Qualitative Research,” which formally introduced the grounded theory methodology. This book provided a detailed description of the grounded theory process, emphasizing the importance of open coding, axial coding, and selective coding.

• Evolution of grounded theory and divergent perspectives

Over the decades, grounded theory has evolved, with various scholars contributing to its development and refining its principles. Kathy Charmaz, for instance, emphasized the significance of reflexivity, urging researchers to acknowledge their own biases and their influence on the research process. Juliet Corbin and Anselm Strauss further developed the concept of “theoretical sensitivity,” emphasizing the researcher’s ability to identify and interpret relevant patterns and concepts in the data.

Adele Clarke introduced the concept of “Situated Analysis,” highlighting the importance of understanding the social and historical context in which the data is generated. Additionally, Strauss and Corbin proposed the concept of “Grounded Theory in Action,” emphasizing the application of grounded theory principles to practical settings.

• Grounded Theory Today: a versatile and widely used methodology

Today, grounded theory remains a widely used qualitative research methodology, employed in various disciplines, including sociology, nursing, education, and psychology. Its versatility allows researchers to explore a wide range of phenomena, from individual experiences to social processes and organizational structures. Its key strength lies in its ability to generate new theories that are grounded in empirical data, providing insights into social phenomena that were previously unknown or poorly understood. It continues to be a valuable tool for researchers seeking to develop new knowledge and contribute to the understanding of human behavior and social processes. Researchers continue to refine and adapt grounded theory to address contemporary research questions and challenges.

The history of grounded theory research design reflects its evolution from a collaborative effort between Glaser and Strauss to its widespread adoption across disciplines today. The approach has demonstrated its resilience and adaptability, remaining a valuable qualitative research methodology for generating contextually grounded theories from empirical data. The diverse perspectives within the grounded theory tradition highlight its ongoing relevance and impact in the field of qualitative research.

What are the major fields of study in which grounded theory research design is used?

Grounded theory is a versatile research methodology that can be applied to a wide range of fields of study. It is widely used across various disciplines due to its flexibility and adaptability. Here are some of the major fields in which grounded theory research design is commonly used:

1. Sociology: Grounded theory was originally developed in the field of sociology, and it remains a widely used methodology for exploring social phenomena such as socialization, deviance, and social movements. It is also deeply rooted in sociology, where it has been extensively used to explore social processes, interactions, and the development of social structures
2. Nursing: Grounded theory is widely applied in nursing and healthcare research to explore healthcare processes, communication in healthcare, and the experiences of healthcare professionals. Nursing researchers often use grounded theory to study the experiences of patients, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. This research can inform the development of new nursing interventions and improve patient care.
3. Education: Educators use grounded theory to study teaching and learning processes, classroom dynamics, and the impact of educational policies. This research can help to improve teaching practices and student outcomes.
4. Psychology: Psychologists use grounded theory to study a wide range of phenomena, including mental health, psychotherapy, and social cognition. This research can lead to new understandings of human behavior and the development of more effective treatments for mental illness. Psychologists use grounded theory to delve into human experiences, emotions, and behaviors. It is particularly valuable for understanding subjective aspects of psychological phenomena.
5. Management and organizational studies: Researchers in management studies employ grounded theory to investigate organizational behavior, team dynamics, and aspects of workplace culture. It is used to study organizational cultures, leadership styles, and change processes. This research can help to improve organizational effectiveness and employee well-being.
6. Health Sciences: Grounded theory is used in various health sciences disciplines, such as medicine, public health, and rehabilitation, to explore patient experiences, treatment outcomes, and healthcare systems. This research can inform the development of new interventions and improve healthcare delivery.

In addition to these major fields, grounded theory is also used in other areas of study, such as anthropology, communication studies, and social work. The versatility of grounded theory makes it a valuable tool for researchers across a wide range of disciplines. Here are some specific examples of how grounded theory has been used in different fields:

• Sociology: Glaser and Strauss’s study of dying patients, which led to the development of grounded theory, is a classic example of grounded theory research in sociology.
• Nursing: Charmaz’s study of chronically ill patients’ experiences of living with illness is a well-known example of grounded theory research in nursing.
• Education: Corbin and Strauss’s study of teachers’ responses to student misbehavior is a notable example of grounded theory research in education.
• Psychology: Braun and Clarke’s study of the experiences of people with eating disorders is a prominent example of grounded theory research in psychology.
• Management and organizational studies: Barley and Kunda’s study of the gendered division of labor in a management consulting firm is a noteworthy example of grounded theory research in management and organizational studies.

These examples illustrate the diverse applications of grounded theory across various fields of study. The methodology’s ability to generate new theories from empirical data has made it a valuable tool for researchers seeking to understand and explain a wide range of social phenomena. Moreover, it demonstrates the breadth of fields in which grounded theory research design is applied. Its ability to generate rich, context-specific theories makes it a valuable method for exploring complex social phenomena across diverse academic disciplines.

Can grounded theory qualitative research design be used in health care?

Grounded theory qualitative research design is widely used and highly valuable in healthcare research. It provides a systematic and inductive approach to understanding various aspects of healthcare, including patient experiences, healthcare processes, communication, and the social dynamics within healthcare settings. Here are several ways in which grounded theory is applied in healthcare:

1. Understanding patient experiences: Grounded theory is often employed to explore the lived experiences of patients dealing with specific health conditions or undergoing medical treatments. This includes investigating their emotions, coping mechanisms, and interactions with healthcare providers.
2. Exploring healthcare processes: Researchers use grounded theory to study healthcare processes, such as the delivery of medical care, the implementation of healthcare policies, and the coordination of services within healthcare organizations.
3. Investigating healthcare communication: Grounded theory is applied to understand communication patterns among healthcare professionals, patients, and their families. This includes exploring effective communication strategies and the impact of communication on patient outcomes.
4. Studying healthcare provider experiences: Researchers use grounded theory to explore the experiences of healthcare providers, including nurses, doctors, and other professionals. This may involve understanding their decision-making processes, job satisfaction, and interactions with colleagues.
5. Examining patient safety issues: Grounded theory is employed to study patient safety issues, including the identification of errors, the reporting of incidents, and the development of strategies to enhance patient safety within healthcare organizations.
6. Investigating chronic illness management: Grounded theory is used to explore how individuals manage chronic illnesses, including their adaptation strategies, interactions with healthcare providers, and the impact of chronic conditions on their daily lives.
7. Exploring health policy implementation: Researchers may use grounded theory to study the implementation of health policies and interventions. This includes understanding how policies are adopted, adapted, or resisted within healthcare systems.
8. Analyzing healthcare ethics and decision-making: Grounded theory is applied to investigate ethical dilemmas and decision-making processes within healthcare, especially in areas such as end-of-life care, organ transplantation, and medical research.
9. Studying healthcare quality improvement: Grounded theory is employed to examine efforts to improve the quality of healthcare services. This includes exploring the implementation of quality improvement initiatives, identifying barriers, and understanding the impact on patient outcomes.
10. Researching mental health and well-being: Grounded theory is used to explore issues related to mental health, including stigma, access to mental health services, and the experiences of individuals dealing with mental health conditions.

The flexibility of grounded theory allows researchers to adapt the methodology to the specific nuances of healthcare contexts, making it a powerful tool for generating contextually relevant and meaningful insights in the field of healthcare research.

What are the key characteristics/features of a grounded theory research design?

Grounded theory research design is characterized by several key features and characteristics that distinguish it from other research methodologies. These features contribute to the inductive and systematic nature of grounded theory, facilitating the development of theories grounded in empirical evidence. Here are the key characteristics and features of a grounded theory research design:

1. Inductive Approach: Grounded theory follows an inductive approach, meaning that researchers start with the data and work towards the development of a theory. It is a bottom-up process where theories emerge from the data, as opposed to a deductive approach where theories are tested against existing hypotheses. The theory is developed from the data, rather than being tested against a pre-existing hypothesis.
2. Constant comparative method: This is a central technique in grounded theory. Researchers continuously compare new data with existing data to identify patterns, similarities, and differences. This iterative process helps in the development of categories and concepts.
3. Theoretical sampling: Researchers use theoretical sampling, selecting participants or collecting data that will help to develop and refine emerging theories. This involves purposefully choosing participants or data sources that will contribute to a deeper understanding of the emerging concepts.
4. Coding: Grounded theory involves systematic coding of data to identify and categorize patterns and themes. Initial coding involves breaking down data into discrete parts, followed by focused coding, where the researcher identifies key concepts and relationships. The data is analyzed using a systematic coding process that identifies and labels concepts and themes.
5. Categories and concepts: As the research progresses, categories and concepts are developed based on the coded data. This process culminates in the development of a core category, which is the central concept or theme that emerged from the data. These categories and concepts contribute to the development of a grounded theory that explains the underlying social processes.
6. Memoing: Researchers keep detailed memos throughout the research process, documenting thoughts, ideas, and reflections. This helps in the development of a coherent and well-supported theory.
7. Saturation: Grounded theory aims for theoretical saturation, meaning that data collection continues until no new information or themes emerge. This ensures that the theory is robust and based on a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon under study.
8. Emergence of theory: The end result of grounded theory research is the generation of a substantive theory that explains the patterns and processes identified in the data. This theory should be grounded in the empirical evidence collected during the study.
9. Iterative process: The researcher goes back and forth between collecting and analyzing data until they reach a point of saturation.

These key characteristics collectively define grounded theory research design and highlight its unique approach to generating contextually rich and empirically grounded theories. These are elaborated using the following tabular format:

These characteristics highlight the core principles of grounded theory research, which is a powerful tool for generating new knowledge from qualitative data. In addition to these key characteristics, grounded theory research is also characterized by:

• Open coding: The initial stage of data analysis in grounded theory, in which the researcher breaks down the data into discrete segments and labels them with codes.
• Axial coding: The second stage of data analysis in grounded theory, in which the researcher identifies relationships between the codes and develops categories.
• Selective coding: The final stage of data analysis in grounded theory, in which the researcher integrates the categories into a core theoretical framework.

Grounded theory research is a complex and challenging methodology, but it can be a rewarding one. When done well, grounded theory can generate rich and insightful theories that can help us understand the social world around us.  Grounded theory research is a valuable tool for researchers who want to generate new knowledge about social phenomena. It is a flexible and adaptable method that can be used to study a wide range of topics.

What are the various types of grounded theory research design?

Grounded theory research design has evolved over time, leading to the development of different types or approaches within the broader grounded theory tradition. Three primary types of grounded theory often discussed are “Classic Grounded Theory”, “Constructivist Grounded Theory” and “Evolved Grounded Theory”. These variants share common foundational principles but differ in certain philosophical and methodological aspects. Here’s an overview of these three main types:

1. Classic Grounded Theory:

Developed by Glaser and Strauss in their seminal work “The Discovery of Grounded Theory: Strategies for Qualitative Research” (1967), this approach emphasizes a strict adherence to the inductive process, relying solely on the data to generate theory without any preconceived notions or theoretical frameworks. Rooted in the original work of the said authors,  Classic Grounded Theory, emphasizes the generation of abstract, generalizable theories with the goal to develop a theory that can be applied broadly and is grounded in the data rather than being tied to existing theoretical frameworks.

Theoretical sampling is a key feature, involving the purposeful selection of data sources to develop and refine emerging theories it focuses on discovering patterns, categories, and relationships in data. Aiming for theoretical saturation, the point at which no new insights or categories emerge from the data it delays the review of existing literature until later stages of the research process to prevent preconceived notions from influencing theory development.

2. Constructivist Grounded Theory:

Introduced by Charmaz in her work “Constructing Grounded Theory: A Practical Guide Through Qualitative Analysis” (2006), this approach emphasizes the role of the researcher’s own experiences and perspectives in shaping the emerging theory, acknowledging that theory is not solely derived from the data but also from the researcher’s interpretive lens. 

Further developed by Juliet Corbin and Anselm Strauss it is as an extension of classic grounded theory embracing a more interpretive and constructivist stance. It acknowledges the role of the researcher’s interpretations and perspectives in shaping the research process. It  involves simultaneous data collection and analysis, allowing the researcher’s evolving understanding to influence ongoing data collection. It encourages early engagement with existing literature to integrate prior knowledge into the research process.

Theoretical sampling is used in it, but the emphasis is on capturing the diverse perspectives of participants rather than focusing solely on theoretical development while recognizes multiple realities and perspectives, leading to the development of theories that are more context-specific and situated within the participants’ experiences.

3. Evolved Grounded Theory:

 Proposed by Strauss and Corbin in their book “Basics of Qualitative Research: Techniques and Procedures for Developing Grounded Theory” (1990), this approach allows for some flexibility in the research process, incorporating existing literature and theoretical frameworks as a starting point for data analysis.

Each variant of grounded theory offers a distinct perspective on the research process, with varying degrees of emphasis on the inductive nature of theory development, the role of existing literature, and the researcher’s reflexivity. The choice of variant depends on the research question, the researcher’s epistemological stance, and the nature of the data. Here’s a table summarizing the key differences between the three variants:

Grounded theory, in its various forms, remains a powerful tool for generating new knowledge from qualitative data, providing a systematic approach to understanding and explaining social phenomena. It’s essential to note that the labels and distinctions between types can sometimes blur, and researchers may adopt a combination of principles based on the specific needs of their research. The choice of a particular type depends on the researcher’s philosophical orientation, research questions, and the desired outcome of the study.

What is the main aim/purpose of a grounded theory research design?

The main aim/purpose of a grounded theory research design is to generate new theory from qualitative data. This means that the researcher starts with no pre-existing hypotheses or theories, and instead allows the theory to emerge from the data itself. This inductive approach is what sets grounded theory apart from other research methodologies, such as quantitative research, which typically starts with a hypothesis that is then tested against the data.

Grounded theory is a valuable tool for researchers who want to:

• Understand new or emerging phenomena: Grounded theory is well-suited for studying phenomena that are not well understood or for which there is little existing theory.
• Explore complex social processes: Grounded theory can be used to study complex social processes, such as decision-making, socialization, and social movements.
• Develop new explanations for social phenomena: Grounded theory can generate new explanations for social phenomena that challenge or extend existing theories.

The main purpose of a grounded theory research design is to generate a comprehensive and contextually grounded theory or theories that explain a phenomenon observed in the data and its primary objectives include:

1. Theory development from data: The central aim of grounded theory is to develop theories that emerge directly from the data, rather than testing existing theories. The researcher seeks to understand and explain the underlying patterns, processes, and relationships inherent in the studied phenomenon.
2. Contextual and rich understanding: Grounded theory aims to provide a rich and contextual understanding of the phenomenon under investigation. It emphasizes capturing the complexities and nuances of the participants’ experiences within their natural context.
3. Development of abstract and generalizable theories (Classic Grounded Theory): In classic grounded theory, the goal is to develop abstract and generalizable theories that can be applied beyond the specific context of the study. These theories should have relevance to similar phenomena in other settings.
4. Understanding social processes and interactions: Grounded theory is particularly well-suited for studying social processes, interactions, and the development of social structures. It is commonly used in sociology and related fields to explore the dynamics of human behavior within social contexts.
5. Identification of patterns and categories: The methodology involves the systematic identification and development of patterns, categories, and themes within the data. Through constant comparison, the researcher refines these elements, leading to the emergence of higher-level concepts and theories.
6. Contributing new knowledge: Grounded theory aims to contribute new knowledge to the field. By focusing on theory development from the ground up, researchers have the potential to uncover novel insights and perspectives that may not be captured by existing theories.
7. Practical applications: Grounded theory is often applied in areas where a deep understanding of human behavior, interactions, and social phenomena is crucial. This includes fields such as healthcare, education, management, and various social sciences.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, our discussion about the basics of grounded theory has revealed a methodological tapestry woven with depth, flexibility, and a commitment to understanding the intricacies of the human experience. As we stand at the crossroads of philosophy and practice, it becomes evident that grounded theory is more than just a research design; it’s an invitation to explore, discover, and contribute to the evolving landscape of knowledge.

Understanding the basics of grounded theory involves embracing its inductive nature, acknowledging the significance of being “grounded” in empirical evidence, and appreciating the iterative dance between data collection and analysis. The stories embedded within the data become the building blocks of theories that not only explain but illuminate the complex web of social phenomena.

In summary, the main aim of grounded theory research design is to systematically and inductively develop theories that are grounded in the empirical realities observed in the data, providing a deeper understanding of complex social phenomena.

In the next blog post, A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Grounded Theory Research Design, the following topics shall be discussed at length: 

1. Importance of grounded theory research design
2. Strengths and limitations of grounded theory research design
3. Why do researchers select a grounded theory research design?
4. When should you use grounded theory research design?
5. Is the grounded theory research design qualitative or quantitative in nature?
6. What are the key stages of the grounded theory research process?
7. What are the most commonly used data collection methods in grounded theory research design?
8. What are the key steps involved in grounded theory design?
9. How many participants used to be engaged in grounded theory research?
10. How long should be a grounded theory research study?

References:

Corbin, J. M., & Strauss, A. (1990). Grounded theory research: Procedures, canons, and evaluative criteria. Qualitative sociology, 13(1), 3-21.

Creswell, J. W. (2007). Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing among five traditions (2nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage

Glaser, B. G. (1978). Theoretical sensitivity: Advances in the methodology of grounded theory (Vol. 2). Sociology Press Mill Valley, CA.

Glaser, B. G. (1992). Emergence vs forcing: Basics of grounded theory analysis. Sociology Press.

Glaser, B. G. (1999). The future of grounded theory. Qualitative Health Research, 9(6), 836–845.

Glaser, B. G., & Strauss, A. (1967). The discovery grounded theory: strategies for qualitative inquiry. Aldin, Chicago.

Glaser, B. G., & Strauss, A. (2009). The discovery of grounded theory: Strategies for qualitative research. Transaction Publishers.

Khan, S. N. (2014). Qualitative research method: Grounded theory. International journal of business and management, 9(11), 224-233.

Strauss, A., & Corbin, J. (1998). Basics of qualitative research techniques.