What best describes grounded theory and its data analysis approach?

• A. A hypothesis testing framework focusing on experimental manipulation.
• B. An approach where theory emerges from data through systematic coding and constant comparative analysis.
• C. A purely literature-driven theory without data.
• D. A statistical model for variance components.

Answer: (B)

Grounded theory is a research approach where theory emerges from data through systematic coding and constant comparative analysis. In practice, data collection and analysis happen together: researchers code interview transcripts or field notes to identify concepts, then use methods like open, axial, and selective coding to link these concepts into a developing theory. Through constant comparison of new data with existing codes and theoretical sampling, categories are refined until they fit the data and reach saturation. The result is a theory grounded in observed data, not something tested from a pre-existing hypothesis, derived solely from existing literature, or expressed as a statistical model.