grounded theory and sensitizing concepts.pdfVIP

International Journal of Qualitative Methods 5 (3) September 2006 Grounded Theory and Sensitizing Concepts Glenn A. Bowen Glenn A. Bowen, PhD, Director of Service Learning, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, North Carolina, USA Abstract : Grounded theory is a qualitative research approach that uses in- ductive analysis as a principal technique. Yet, researchers who embrace this approach often use sensitizing concepts to guide their analysis. In this arti- cle, the author examines the relationship between sensitizing concepts and grounded theory. Furthermore, he illustrates the application of sensitizing Author’s note concepts in a study of community-based antipoverty projects in Jamaica. The Thanks to the College of Health and Urban Affairs (School of Social article contains commentary about trustworthiness techniques, the coding Work) at Florida International Uni- process, and the constant comparative method of analysis, as well as a syn - versity, Miami, USA, for financial opsis of study findings. assistance toward my participation in a qualitative methods workshop in August 2003. Dr. Deborah Pad- Keywords: grounded theory, inductive analysis, naturalistic research, sensi- gett (New York University) pro- tizing concepts, themes, trustworthiness vided expert guidance during the