What does sampling look like in qualitative research? (Theoretical Sampling)

Qualitative research usually follows a theoretical sampling strategy. This is not about statistical representativeness, but about representativeness in concept, i.e. that the result levels should be theoretically saturated and secured at the end of the research. However, it is largely irrelevant whether a result also applies to similar cases (even though this may well be the case).

Theoretical sampling refers to two levels: the level of case selection and the level of data selection during the analysis process. In case selection, theoretical sampling means that the research cases (persons, organisations, texts, etc.) are selected on the basis of theoretical considerations. The initial decisions are usually made on the basis of literature research. In the sense of the cyclical procedure in qualitative research, the alternating activity of data collection and data evaluation then begins. From the first case(s) onwards, however, theoretical sampling then means that future case selection is decided on the basis of one's own initial evaluations. At the level of data selection, Theoretical Sampling means that in this cyclical procedure, it can be decided at any time that data material that has already been analysed will be looked at again.

Literature

Strauss, Anselm L., Corbin, Juliet (1996): Grounded Theory. Grundlagen Qualitativer Sozialforschung. Weinheim/Basel: Beltz Psychologie