What is the main objective of grounded theory?

The main objective of grounded theory is to generate a new theory based on participant data. Unlike other research methods that may start with existing theories and seek to confirm or disprove them, grounded theory emphasizes developing theories that emerge directly from the data collected during the research process. This approach involves iterative data collection and analysis, which helps researchers to identify patterns, concepts, and categories that can inform the development of new theoretical frameworks. As researchers analyze qualitative data—through methods like coding and constant comparative analysis—they seek to construct a theory that is rooted in the actual experiences and perspectives of participants. This inductive methodology makes grounded theory particularly valuable in areas where existing theories may not adequately explain the phenomena being studied.