Theoretical Coding in Grounded Theory Methodology

When doing classic grounded theory research, one of the most problematic areas, particularly for novice researchers, is the theoretical coding process. The identification of theoretical codes is essential to development of an integrated and explanatory substantive theory when a researcher is using classic grounded theory research methodology, but it is not a part of Straussian qualitative data analysis as described by Strauss and Corbin. A theoretical code is the relational model through which all substantive codes/categories are related to the core category. Like substantive codes, theoretical codes emerge through the data analysis process, rather than being overlaid on the data through the use of conjecture or pet codes. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the theoretical coding process and to review the theoretical coding families and individual theoretical codes that have been identified previously by Glaser.