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Remaining consistent with method? An analysis of grounded theory research in accounting

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  • Bruce Gurd

Abstract

Purpose - The paper revisits the intellectual roots of grounded theory and aims to analyze the consistency of the method used in grounded theory research in accounting. About 23 papers are identified and analysed. Design/methodology/approach - The paper is an analytical review of the research literature. It uses four fundamental canons of grounded theory to analyze accounting research. Findings - Some accounting researchers who have used the label “grounded theory” for their research have misunderstood or not applied the core canons of grounded theory established by Glaser and Strauss and developed with diversity in other disciplines. Most claim to follow the specific approach of Strauss and Corbin, but the published research shows limited explication of method. Originality/value - Since Parker and Roffey in 1997, there has been no analysis and re‐evaluation of the burgeoning academic accounting literature using grounded theory. While celebrating the growth of this research, the paper does raise concerns about the lack of consistency of grounded theory research in accounting with the central canons of grounded theory, and it provides some directions for future grounded theory research by encouraging accounting researchers who wish to use grounded theory to engage more strongly in understanding the method and providing transparent explanations of their data collection and analysis methods.

Suggested Citation

  • Bruce Gurd, 2008. "Remaining consistent with method? An analysis of grounded theory research in accounting," Qualitative Research in Accounting & Management, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 5(2), pages 122-138, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:eme:qrampp:v:5:y:2008:i:2:p:122-138
    DOI: 10.1108/11766090810888926
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Vassili Joannides & N. Berland, 2008. "Reactions to Reading 'Remaining Consistent with Method? An Analysis of Grounded Theory Research in Accounting': A Comment on Gurd," Grenoble Ecole de Management (Post-Print) hal-00676581, HAL.
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    3. Vassili Joannides & N. Berland, 2008. "Grounded theory: quels usages dans les recherches en contrôle de gestion?," Grenoble Ecole de Management (Post-Print) hal-00676580, HAL.
    4. Larissa von Alberti‐Alhtaybat & Khaldoon Al‐Htaybat, 2010. "Qualitative accounting research: an account of Glaser's grounded theory," Qualitative Research in Accounting & Management, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 7(2), pages 208-226, June.
    5. Rolf Brühl & Nils Horch & Mathias Orth, 2008. "Grounded Theory und ihre bisherige Anwendung in der empirischen Controlling- und Rechnungswesenforschung," Metrika: International Journal for Theoretical and Applied Statistics, Springer, vol. 19(3), pages 299-323, December.
    6. Rifka Aulia Inayah, 2021. "Analysis the Effect of Financial Distress, Leverage and Free Cash Flow on Earnings Management," GATR Journals afr203, Global Academy of Training and Research (GATR) Enterprise.
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    8. Vassili Joannidès & Nicolas Berland, 2008. "Reactions to reading “Remaining consistent with method? An analysis of grounded theory research in accounting”," Qualitative Research in Accounting & Management, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 5(3), pages 253-261, October.
    9. Thomas Hermann, 2018. "A rhetorical situation triggers accounting communication. The case of the conflict between the Bank of German States and the Government in 1955/56," CONTABILIT? E CULTURA AZIENDALE, FrancoAngeli Editore, vol. 2018(1), pages 73-118.
    10. Vassili Joannides & N. Berland, 2008. "Reactions to Reading 'Remaining Consistent with Method? An Analysis of Grounded Theory Research in Accounting': A Comment on Gurd," Post-Print hal-00676581, HAL.
    11. Vassili Joannides, 2011. "Apports De L'Ethnicite A La Culture En Sciences De Gestion," Grenoble Ecole de Management (Post-Print) hal-00676555, HAL.
    12. Ali M. Elharidy & Brian Nicholson & Robert W. Scapens, 2008. "Using grounded theory in interpretive management accounting research," Qualitative Research in Accounting & Management, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 5(2), pages 139-155, June.

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