Analysis of Current Grounded Theory Method Practices

Abstract

Use of the grounded theory research method (GTM) is increasing across many fields of inquiry. Understanding the GTM and how to apply it is therefore a key task for researchers examining the possibility of using these methods in their research. Since its introduction by Glaser and Strauss in 1967, GTM has evolved into two major streams, and there has been a continual debate about the choice between them and their applicability. Examination of the extant literature reveals significant problems in applying the GTM. In this paper, we take a first step in the quest for identifying the current GTM practices and providing more effective procedures for conducting GTM research. To achieve our goal we started by analysing and identifying a number of difficulties encountered by researchers who have used GTM. We then examined and presented the ways in which they have resolved and addressed the problems.