An Introduction to Classical Grounded Theory

The grounded theory approach has been used in nursing research since 1970. Despite the extensive use of grounded theory over the past 40 years and the publication of papers and methodological textbooks, many novice researchers faced difficulties in applying grounded theory approach in their studies. The purpose of this paper is to discuss what is grounded theory, how it came about, and how it is used that may be useful for novice researchers and graduate nursing students as they interested in using Classical or Glaserian grounded theory methods for the first time.