I have conducted grounded theory research and have constructed themes by following the process of coding. Can I develope my substantive theory on the basis of these themes or I need to run statistical tests or collect furthure data to validate the themes?
There is no need to do statistical testing with GT.
If you wish to go in a new direction by statistically evaluating the themes ("categories") you find, then that would move you out of purely qualitative research and into mixed methods research. This use of GT is currently receiving attention in the field of mixed methods research, but that is not a reason to pursue statistical analysis unless you are genuinely interested in doing so.
No, I definitely agree with Dr David L Morgan.
I certainly did not do any statistical testing, but developed my substantive theory after coding and recording my findings; I used the Framework method of qualitative analysis. After open coding and the use of indices, I started by inputting my findings onto Framework spreadsheets; I did not use axial coding but appropriately charted my findings in Framework and then, using selective coding, I drew my findings (common themes) together using central (Framework) charts; initially, one for each of 4 aims (themes). To quote from my thesis:
'These central charts brought together relevant data from all the thematic framework spreadsheets, under headings relating to theoretical coding and themes, allowing further comparative analysis.'
'By the time I had finished charting eighteen interviews, I was able to create a central chart, relating to the concept of adaptation. This was still based on the thematic 'Framework' chart format, in conjunction with the emergence of the categories.'
The book I used regarding Framework was:
Ritchie J, Spencer L, O'Connor W. Carrying out qualitative analysis. In: Ritchie J, Lewis J, editors. Qualitative Research Practice: A Guide for Social Science Students and Researchers. London: Sage Publications; 2003: 219-262.
https://www.google.co.uk/search?ei=8zL4X6nlHYuKlwSc0YroBg&q=jane+ritchie+jane+lewis+qualitative+research+framework&oq=jane+ritchie+jane+lewis+qualitative+research+framework&gs_lcp=CgZwc3ktYWIQDDoJCAAQyQMQFhAeOgUIIRCgAToHCCEQChCgAVDGQViUwwFg9dEBaABwAHgAgAGCAYgB2A-SAQQyMy4xmAEAoAEBqgEHZ3dzLXdpesABAQ&sclient=psy-ab&ved=0ahUKEwjpqs-7j4zuAhULxYUKHZyoAm0Q4dUDCA0
I hope this helps,
Mary
David L Morgan Mary C R Wilson Thank you so much for your answers. It was a huge help!
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