Theoretical saturation can be described as the point at which, through a process of concurrent data collection and analysis, no new concepts or categories are introduced. Once a category is theoretically saturated it is not necessary to continue to theoretically sample for comparison data, further data no longer sparking new insights or revealing new properties or dimensions of established categories and codes. The grounded theory can be considered theoretically saturated.
Theoretical saturation is a key factor in building a comprehensive, convincing and integrated theory, one in which an explanatory pattern in and of the data is present. The theoretical categories in a saturated theory are conceptually well developed, and categories and codes are well articulated and integrated. The conceptual density achieved through theoretical saturation is characterised by the depth, richness and interconnectedness of the grounded theory.
While theoretical saturation is characterised by no new data driven insights, properties or dimensions occurring, an alternative view exists. Theoretical sufficiency emphasises the adequacy and comprehensiveness of a theory developed from the data rather than a theory saturated to the maximum possible extent.
Achieving theoretical saturation is the criterion by which theoretical sampling can end and attention can shift to focusing on enabling conceptual integration of categories.
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