grounded theory

Grounded theory is a research method used to develop theories based on real-world data rather than preconceived ideas. Researchers collect information through interviews, observations, or documents, then analyze it to identify patterns and concepts. These insights help form a theory that explains a specific phenomenon. The goal is to create a framework that accurately represents people's experiences and behaviors, allowing for a deeper understanding of a topic. Unlike traditional theories that start with a hypothesis, grounded theory builds knowledge from the ground up, ensuring that the final theory is closely tied to actual data.