Posted: August 22nd, 2021

Phenomenology and grounded theory

For this discussion, you will demonstrate your understanding of two methodological approaches that can be applied in qualitative research by describing each, comparing and contrasting the key features, and explaining when it would be appropriate to use each methodological approach.

The two methodological approaches that can be applied in qualitative research are phenomenology and grounded theory.

Phenomenology is an approach that seeks to understand the essence of a particular experience or phenomenon as it is perceived by individuals who have lived through it. In this method, the researcher attempts to capture the lived experience of the participants by exploring their perceptions, emotions, and behaviors. Phenomenology is focused on the subjective experiences of individuals, and it involves an in-depth exploration of their personal experiences and perspectives.

Grounded theory, on the other hand, is an approach that is used to develop a theory from the data collected through the research process. It involves an iterative process of data collection, analysis, and theory development. This method aims to generate a theory that is grounded in the data, and it involves constant comparison and analysis of the data to identify patterns, themes, and categories.

When it comes to comparing and contrasting the key features of these two approaches, the main difference lies in their focus. Phenomenology is focused on exploring the subjective experiences of individuals, while grounded theory is focused on developing a theory that is grounded in the data.

Another difference is that phenomenology typically involves a smaller sample size than grounded theory. Phenomenology is concerned with in-depth exploration of individual experiences, while grounded theory seeks to identify patterns and themes across a larger sample.

In terms of when it would be appropriate to use each methodological approach, phenomenology is best suited when the research question is focused on understanding the subjective experiences of individuals. For example, a researcher may use phenomenology to explore the experiences of individuals who have undergone a particular medical procedure or who have lived through a traumatic event.

Grounded theory, on the other hand, is appropriate when the research question is focused on developing a theory that is grounded in the data. For example, a researcher may use grounded theory to explore the experiences of individuals who have undergone a particular medical procedure and to identify patterns and themes that can be used to develop a theory about the effectiveness of the procedure.

In conclusion, both phenomenology and grounded theory are valuable methodological approaches that can be applied in qualitative research. Choosing the appropriate approach depends on the research question and the nature of the data that needs to be collected and analyzed.

References
Giorgi, A. (2016). Phenomenology as a rigorous, systematic, and creative research approach. Journal of phenomenological psychology, 47(2), 143-173. doi: 10.1163/15691624-12341299

Charmaz, K. (2017). Grounded theory: Objectivist and constructivist methods. In J. A. Smith (Ed.), Qualitative psychology: A practical guide to research methods (pp. 81-110). Sage.

van Manen, M. (2016). Phenomenology of practice: Meaning-giving methods in phenomenological research and writing. Routledge.

Glaser, B. G. (2018). Doing grounded theory: Issues and discussions. Sociology Press.

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