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Figure 4.1. Data Analysis Procedure of Grounded Theory Method. Adapted from Grounded
Theory Qualitative Content Analysis, Reducing Confusion about Grounded Theory and
Qualitative Content Analysis: Similarities and Differences by J. Y. Cho & E. H. Lee. Retrieved
from http://dohwan.tistory.com/532.
Data analysis in grounded theory and data analysis in qualitative content analysis share
similarities in that both involve a systematic coding process.
Grounded theory methodology (GTM) is a popular methodology used in social work
dissertation research. GTM entails the development of theory ‘grounded in’ and generated from
data systematically gathered and analyzed through qualitative methods.
The benefits of using grounded theory for this dissertation include having ecological
validity to the extent of which my research findings accurately represent real-world settings. GTM
is usually ecologically valid because due to similarity to the data from which they were established.
Also, there is a novelty aspect because grounded theories are often fresh and new and have the
potential for innovative discoveries in science and other areas. Parsimony involves using the
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