One of the most contentious and misunderstood aspects of grounded theory studies is the timing of the literature review. Some research methodologies, including certain qualitative research methodologies, use the literature to identify theoretical frameworks and employ these to direct and interpret study findings. Grounded theorists differ in their approach to literature reviews by actively seeking not to be influenced by preconceived ideas of an area and instead generate theory based on their study’s data. By delaying a formal literature review the grounded theorist seeks to prevent imposing existing theories or knowledge on data. Notwithstanding, the literature review should be tailored to the specific purpose at hand.
Ideally your literature search and review will be undertaken after the construction of a theoretical framework, though the demands of research panels, ethics committees and funding bodies often necessitate a preliminary review is completed before data gathering can commence. Acknowledging that no researcher is a blank slate, grounded theorists are encouraged to limit the impact of unavoidable excursions into the literature by undertaking a purposive review to articulate existing knowledge and perceptions. In this way the grounded theorist can avoid contaminating their thinking or, later, constraining their analysis to a pre-existing framework. A preliminary review also enables the researcher to follow the traditional thesis or article format of presenting a literature review as an introduction; positioned here, the purpose of the review is to prepare the reader for what is to come as a prelude to the study process and findings.
A formal or comprehensive literature review is typically undertaken after data analysis has begun, often starting once your categories and the analytic relationship between them are forming. The purpose of reviewing the work of others at this stage is to enhance your theoretical sensitivity, and to identify and analyse the most significant works in relation to your developing theory. By delaying your formal literature review you’ll be positioned to undertake a focused review having developed a clearer understanding of what’s relevant to your theory. Your review will help strengthen your arguments and enable you to demonstrate how your work enriches and adds a new dimension to the subject area.
Staying true to the grounded theory process, remain alert and memo whether, when and to what extent earlier ideas and literature enter your research and subject them to rigorous scrutiny.
References
Birks, M., & Mills, J. (2015). Grounded theory: a practical guide (2nd ed.). London: SAGE Publications Ltd.
Bryant, A., & Charmaz, K. (2007). The SAGE handbook of grounded theory. London: SAGE Publications Ltd.
Glaser, B. G. (1992). Basics of grounded theory: emergence vs forcing. California: Mill Valley.
Stern, P. N. (2007). On solid ground: essential properties for growing grounded theory. In A. Bryant & K. Charmaz (Eds.), The SAGE handbook of grounded theory (pp. 114-126). London: SAGE Publications Ltd.
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