3.6.2 Are post-modernist developments of grounded theory compatible with its conceptual and inductive nature? (210)

Tom Andrews, Lecturer, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland andrews@ucc.ie

Abstract:

Grounded Theory is one of the most widely used methodologies and is considered to be a major qualitative method (Morse 2001). Contrary to this widely held view, Grounded Theory is not a qualitative methodology but a general inductive methodology based on the perspective of participants that can use any data whether generated qualitatively or quantitatively (Glaser 2003). Grounded Theory has its roots in qualitative maths, explication de text and constant comparison and is not based on symbolic interactionism, which in this methodology is simply one of many theoretical codes (Glaser 2003). Their function is to conceptualise how substantive codes relate to each other as hypothesis (Glaser 1978). While many researchers claim to use the methodology, few follow all of the steps outlined originally (Glaser 1978). Influenced by post-modernism, researchers have attempted to write about and discuss Grounded Theory as a naturalistic inquiry based methodology. Different versions such as constructionist, feminist and critical Grounded Theory have emerged but this has served only to undermine its conceptual and abstract nature. Its focus is on the conceptualisation of latent patterns and not on giving “voice” to participants (Glaser 2003). The end product of Grounded Theory is the development of substantive theory not conceptual or “thick” description. This presentation will analyse the influence of post-modernism on the development of the methodology with reference to and establish if these are consistent with classical Grounded Theory as originated by Glaser and Strauss. Its conceptual and abstract nature will be emphasised and re-established in an attempt to re-discover its potential contribution to theory development in nursing.

Recommended reading list:

  • Glaser, B. (1978). Theoretical sensitivity: advances in the methodology of grounded theory. The Sociological Press, Mill Valley, California
  • Glaser, B. (2003). The grounded theory perspective 2- description's remodelling of grounded theory methodology. Sociology Press, Mill Valley
  • Morse, J. (2001). Situating Grounded Theory within Qualitative Inquiry. In: Schreiber, R. and Stern, P. (EDS.), Using Grounded Theory in Nursing. Spring Publishing Company4, New York, pp. 1-15

Source of Funding: N/A

Level of funding: N/A

Biography:

I trained in nursing at Broadgreen Hospital, where I also commenced my career in Intensive Care Nursing. I held a position as a staff nurse and charge nurse at the Intensive Care Unit, Withington Hospital, Manchester, until my appointment to lecture in Critical Care Nursing at the University of Manchester. I taught on various courses and modules there until I took up my current appointment as Lecturer at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Unversity College Cork, where I lecture in Critical Care and Research Methods. I graduated from the University of Manchester with a PhD in 2003.