Qualitative Research: An Introduction to Methods and Designs

Theoretical Sensitivity and Using the Literature

Theoretical sensitivity means that through data gathering and analysis researchers are able to “discover” relationships between their categories that lead them to construct a grounded theory that fits, works with, and is relevant to the field under study (Glaser, 1978). “To gain theoretical sensitivity, we look at studied life from multiple vantage points, make comparisons, follow leads, and build on ideas” (Charmaz, 2006, p. 135). One way of fostering theoretical sensitivity, according to Glaser (1978, 1998, 2005; Glaser & Strauss, 1967), is for researchers to delay reading theoretical literature and published research in the substantive area of their study until the analysis is nearly complete. ...