Delaying the literature review in grounded theory

In most forms of research the literature review is undertaken before data collection commences.

However, in GT studies, it is usual to defer the completion of the review until later, so that emerging concepts can suggest areas of literature to consider.

“To undertake an extensive review of literature before the emergence of a core category violates the basic premise of GT - that being, the theory emerges from the data not from extant theory” (Glaser & Holton, 2004, ¶46).

Glaser, Barney G. & Holton, Judith (2004) Remodeling Grounded Theory, Forum: Qualitative Social Research, 5(2), Article 4, Available at: http://www.qualitative-research.net/fqstexte/2-04/2-04glaser-e.htm

The process of preparing to enter into research has been described as “washing your mind clean” (Measor and Woods, 1991: 69)

Measor, L., & Woods, P. (1991). Breakthrough and blockage in ethnographic research: contrasting experiences during the changing schools project. In G. Walford (Ed.), Doing Educational Research (pp. 59-81). London: Routledge.

There are however different views on the extent to which literature should be considered at all prior to entering the research context to collect data (i.e. whether no prior literature review at all should be undertaken in a genuine GT study).

Not undertaking a specific literature review should be equated with ignorance, as Glaser has suggested that familiarity with literature is needed to develop theoretical sensitivity.

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