An animated model for facilitating understanding of Grounded Theory and the processes used to generate substantive theory

As a qualitative research method, Grounded Theory (GT) has had a significant impact on nursing research and has made a major contribution to the development of nursing knowledge. Despite this, conflicting opinions in the literature about methodological issues have contributed to the confusion about how this type of research is best conducted. The purpose of this paper is to present an animated model that illustrates and facilitates an understanding of how the various techniques inherent in the GT method converge to enable data categorisation and the formation of substantive theory. It will explain the key tenets of the research process underpinning GT and provides a guide for navigating the research process. It is hoped that this will facilitate understanding and promote the use of this methodology in nursing when it is appropriate to the research question being posed. © The Author(s) 2012 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.