Theoretical sampling process in a Straussian Grounded Theory study

Area of Science:

• Qualitative Research Methodology
• Grounded Theory
• Symbolic Interactionism

Background:

• Developing substantive theories requires rigorous data collection and analysis.
• Understanding patient, family, and health professional experiences is crucial in healthcare settings.
• The presence of family during emergency care impacts patient and family experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the theoretical sampling process within the Straussian Grounded Theory framework.
• To illustrate theoretical sampling using a field research example on family presence during emergency care.
• To develop a substantive theory on perceptions and experiences related to family presence in emergency care.

Main Methods:

• Employed theoretical sampling with 42 participants across nine sample groups.
• Utilized the constant comparative method for participant recruitment and data collection.
• Grounded Theory methodology, specifically the Straussian strand, guided the research.

Main Results:

• Theoretical sampling effectively guided data collection throughout the research process.
• Data collection involved in-depth concept study and iterative question generation based on emerging data.
• The process facilitated the development of a substantive theory grounded in empirical data.

Conclusions:

• Provides a practical understanding of theoretical sampling in Straussian Grounded Theory.
• Offers guidance for researchers aiming to apply theoretical sampling in their studies.
• Enhances comprehension of how to conduct data collection guided by emerging theory.