Using Grounded Theory Research Methods: A Guide for the Health and Social Sciences

This practical text introduces and compares all the different varieties of grounded theory for researchers new to the methodology from across the health and social sciences. Grounded theory is a complex research methodology, further complicated by the existence of a number of different variations.

Method slurring is a common problem and this thoughtful textbook enables readers to understand and use grounded theory correctly, with chapters focusing on: Barney Glaser’s Grounded Theory; Anselm Strauss and Juliet Corbin’s Grounded Theory; Leonard Schatzman and Barbara Bowers’ Dimensional Analysis; Kathy Charmaz’s Constructivist Grounded Theory; Adele Clarke’s Situational Analysis. It includes a comparison of first- and second-generation grounded theory approaches and includes an interdisciplinary selection of examples. Each chapter includes tips for researchers, activities and a summary highlighting the strengths and limitations of the grounded theory approach in question.

This text is an essential read for researchers with an interest in grounded theory or advanced students taking qualitative research methods courses.

Cheryl Tatano Beck is a distinguished Professor at the School of Nursing, and has a joint appointment in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, USA.