The research tradition of grounded theory stems from which discipline?

Grounded theory is a qualitative research methodology that was originally developed within the field of sociology. The approach was introduced by sociologists Barney Glaser and Anselm Strauss in the 1960s as a systematic way to generate theory from data through rigorous analysis. Its primary aim is to develop theories that are grounded in empirical data rather than preconceived hypotheses or existing theories.

As a research methodology, grounded theory emphasizes the importance of understanding social processes and interactions by collecting and analyzing qualitative data. This makes it particularly well-suited to sociology, where researchers often seek to understand complex social phenomena and behaviors within their natural contexts. The methodology encourages researchers to remain open to the data they collect and to allow categories and theories to emerge organically from the information gathered, rather than imposing a framework that might limit the findings.

Other disciplines, such as psychology, economics, and anthropology, also use qualitative research methods, but grounded theory is specifically rooted in the sociological tradition, which focuses on the exploration of social structures, relationships, and dynamics. This historical and disciplinary context highlights why sociology is the correct answer to this question.