Challenges and Practicalities in Adopting Grounded Theory Methodology When Conducting Prison Research

Grounded theory methodology remains underutilised in the field of prison research. Using an interdisciplinary, large-scale methodology, this research investigates the impact of austerity from the perspective of 87 prison health governance actors in England. In so doing, this chapter articulates the challenges and demystifies the practicalities of adopting grounded theory in prison research. It underscores the importance of implementing an appropriate grounded theory typology which will orientate the epistemological, ontological and subjectivity alignments of the research. Furthermore, this chapter evaluates the ways in which researchers can tolerate the fluidity and ambiguity presented by the intertwined data collection and analysis process. Finally, it critically appraises how grounded theory methodology reinforces good research skills, such as resilience, persistence, perseverance, patience and reflexivity, throughout the research project.