What type of analysis is primarily used in grounded theory?

Grounded theory primarily uses systematic data gathering and analysis as a fundamental aspect of its methodology. This approach involves collecting qualitative data through various means, such as interviews, observations, and focus groups, and then analyzing that data in a structured way to develop theories grounded in the data collected. This process includes coding the data, identifying patterns, and continuously comparing new data with existing findings to refine and develop theories.

The emphasis on systematic data gathering ensures that the analysis is rooted in the actual experiences and perspectives of the participants, rather than being pre-determined by existing theories or frameworks. This method is particularly suited to exploratory research where the goal is to generate new insights rather than to test established hypotheses.