Theoretical saturation in grounded theory studies: an evaluative tool

Abstract

The three Grounded Theory (GT hereafter) schools, Classic, Straussian, and Constructivist GT, differ from each other based on their paradigmatic perspectives. The major difference is in terms of the data analysis procedure. Common features exist among the three GT traditions such as constant comparison method, simultaneous data collection and analysis, memos, theoretical sensitivity, theoretical sampling, and theoretical saturation. Among these features, theoretical saturation acts as a key factor that initiates each coding stage of GT while ending the preceding one. This paper focuses on Theoretical Saturation in GT and evaluates how different GT paradigms approach the concept of Theoretical Saturation. Additionally, facilitating novice GT researchers, the paper suggests the Q-Ü Theoretical Saturation instrument to offer possible solutions to overcome the paradigm-related and practical challenges.