What defines the analytical approach of grounded theory?

The analytical approach of grounded theory is characterized by deriving theories from systematic data analysis. Grounded theory prioritizes the collection and analysis of qualitative data, allowing researchers to develop theories that emerge directly from the data rather than testing existing theoretical frameworks. This approach emphasizes the iterative process of data collection and analysis, where findings inform subsequent data gathering, thus ensuring that the theory development is closely tied to the lived experiences and contexts of the study participants.

By focusing on the data itself, grounded theory enables researchers to discover patterns, themes, and categories that help explain social phenomena. This methodology is particularly effective in fields such as sociology, where understanding the complexity of human behavior and social interactions is crucial.

Other approaches, such as analyzing data to support pre-existing theories or relying solely on numeric data and surveys, do not align with the foundational principles of grounded theory. The essence of grounded theory lies in its inductive nature, seeking to build theory organically from the ground up rather than imposing preconceived notions on the data.