An exploration of methodological pluralism in nursing research

The purpose of this article is to describe some important differences in methodological perspectives within the discipline of nursing. Four research traditions (empiric analytic, grounded theory, Heideggerian hermeneutic, and participatory action research) and the philosophical assumptions that inform them are presented. The discussion touches on criticisms that arise from within and from outside each tradition, as well as how each addresses the usefulness of research. Finally, ways in which specialized language is simultaneously necessary and problematic in advancing scholarly debate are illuminated.