Grounded Theory Methodology in Social Research
Summary
Grounded theory is a qualitative research methodology developed to generate theory from systematic analysis of data rather than to test existing hypotheses. Originating in the work of Glaser and Strauss, it employs iterative cycles of data collection and analysis in which coding, constant comparison and memoing enable researchers to identify patterns, concepts and relationships grounded in participants’ experiences. Various strands of grounded theory have since emerged, including the classic Glaserian approach, the more structured Straussian school and the constructivist perspective that emphasises the co-construction of meaning by researcher and participants. Across these approaches, researchers engage in theoretical sampling to pursue emerging concepts, refine categories and achieve theoretical saturation. The methodology supports the discovery of substantive theories tailored to particular social contexts, making it valuable in fields such as education, health, organisational studies and public policy. Its global significance is reflected in applications ranging from investigations of professional practice to explorations of identity and coping strategies in diverse populations.
Research from Nature Portfolio
No recent Nature Portfolio content available.
Grounded Theory Methodology in Social Research publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in grounded theory methodology in social research across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Open coding: The initial process of breaking down data into discrete concepts and assigning labels to segments of text to capture meaning.
Theoretical sampling: A purposive strategy of selecting new data sources based on emerging analysis to develop and refine theoretical categories.
Constant comparative method: An analytic technique in which each data fragment is compared with others to identify similarities, differences and conceptual properties.
Memoing: The practice of writing reflective notes during analysis to document insights, questions and the evolution of conceptual links.
References
- Discriminating among grounded theory approaches. Nursing Inquiry (2018).
- The Development of Constructivist Grounded Theory. International Journal of Qualitative Methods (2006).
- Applications of Grounded Theory Methodology to Investigate Hearing Loss: A Methodological Qualitative Systematic Review With Developed Guidelines. Ear & Hearing (2024).
- Illuminating the path: a methodological exploration of grounded theory in doctoral theses. Qualitative Research Journal (2023).
- A reflection on identified challenges facing South African teachers. The Independent Journal of Teaching and Learning (2025).
About these summaries
This Nature Research Intelligence Topic summary is created with the cited references and a large language model. We take care to ground generated text with facts, and have systems in place to gain human feedback on the overall quality of the process in line with our AI principles. We strive to create accurate and useful summaries for people unfamiliar with the research topic and that supports this goal. These pages are a beta release and will be updated as we learn how best to help people gain value from a research topic summary.
Turn complex research questions into confident strategic decisions
When you're under pressure to set direction, justify investment, or understand your competitive position, you need more than raw data — you need trusted insights you can act on.
Benchmark your performance against global peers using robust, methodologically sound analysis.
Combine quantitative metrics with qualitative expert insight to uncover strengths, gaps and emerging opportunities.
Gain tailored, decision-ready recommendations aligned to your strategic priorities.
Talk to us to learn more about our data dashboards and bespoke strategy reports.
Grow research skills, confidence and careers with training built for every stage of the research lifecycle.
Developed with Nature Portfolio journal Editors and internationally renowned experts. Discover three ways to learn:
Self-paced, online courses in convenient bite-sized units, covering key skills across scientific writing, publishing, grant writing, data analysis, and more.
Expert trainer-led workshops with hands-on exercises and real-time feedback across core research skills, delivered via interactive group sessions.
Editor-led workshops combining core principles in writing and publishing, personalised 1:1 feedback from Nature Portfolio Editors and hands-on exercises.
Explore course catalogues and workshop agendas, enquire about the options or request institutional pricing.