Grounded theory in nursing research: Part 1--Methodology

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research Methodology
• Qualitative Inquiry
• Grounded Theory Application

Background:

• Grounded theory's philosophical basis aligns with nursing's interpersonal focus.
• It is particularly useful for research areas with limited existing literature.
• This article is the first in a series discussing grounded theory in nursing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the fundamental features of grounded theory methodology.
• To establish a foundation for subsequent critiques and applications of grounded theory in nursing.
• To highlight the relevance of grounded theory for nursing research.

Main Methods:

• The article outlines the key characteristics of grounded theory.
• It serves as an introductory guide to the methodology.
• Discussion is based on established principles of qualitative research.

Main Results:

• Grounded theory offers a robust framework for nursing studies.
• It facilitates the exploration of complex nurse-client interactions.
• The methodology is adaptable to diverse nursing contexts.

Conclusions:

• Grounded theory is a powerful tool for nursing research, particularly in nascent fields.
• Understanding its core tenets is crucial for effective application.
• This foundational article sets the stage for advanced discussions on grounded theory in nursing.