Application of Grounded Theory in Career Research Reviewed

Adelé Janse van Rensburg; Wilfred I. Ukpere

Authors

Adelé Janse van Rensburg Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, Faculty of Management, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
Wilfred I. Ukpere Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, Faculty of Management, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract

Most research studies pose some element of concern, discrepancies and controversy. Grounded theory (GT) research is not an exception. This paper provides an overview of how GT was applied in a PhD study about career transition phenomenon. It should be noted that it is not the intent of this paper to provide a detailed account of the completed study, but rather to provide a practical example of the process followed, which first-time GT researchers might find useful. Therefore, firstly, this paper provides an overview of GT in general, including two of the most controversial topics which are the use of literature and the application of qualitative data analysis (QDA) programs. Secondly, the researcher’s school of thought and her first-hand account of how grounded theory was applied, is explained.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n4p543