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Adopting a constructivist approach to grounded theory: Implications for research design
Author(s) -
Mills Jane,
Bonner Ann,
Francis Karen
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
international journal of nursing practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.62
H-Index - 55
eISSN - 1440-172X
pISSN - 1322-7114
DOI - 10.1111/j.1440-172x.2006.00543.x
Subject(s) - grounded theory , constructivist grounded theory , subjectivism , epistemology , relativism , constructivist teaching methods , sociology , qualitative research , constructivism (international relations) , objectivism , psychology , pedagogy , social science , philosophy , international relations , politics , teaching method , political science , law
Grounded theory is a popular research methodology that is evolving to account for a range of ontological and epistemological underpinnings. Constructivist grounded theory has its foundations in relativism and an appreciation of the multiple truths and realities of subjectivism. Undertaking a constructivist enquiry requires the adoption of a position of mutuality between researcher and participant in the research process, which necessitates a rethinking of the grounded theorist's traditional role of objective observer. Key issues for constructivist grounded theorists to consider in designing their research studies are discussed in relation to developing a partnership with participants that enables a mutual construction of meaning during interviews and a meaningful reconstruction of their stories into a grounded theory model.