Iterative Mixed Analysis Using Grounded Theory Methodology and Structural Equation Modeling: Contributions of Qualitative and Quantitative Methods to the Evaluation of Social Programs
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Date
2025
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Abstract
Grounded theory methodology (GTM) and structural equation modeling (SEM) have been employed in numerous studies; however, the methodological benefits of their integration are still not fully understood. In this article, we present an iterative mixed analysis proposal that leverages relational models informed by GTM and SEM for evaluating social programs. To illustrate this approach, we examine the evaluation of a micro-entrepreneurship program targeted at people living in poverty. We outline the step-by-step application of iterative mixed analysis and present each of its steps: Contextualization, familiarization with the phenomenon, collaborative methodological design, iterative mixed data generation and iterative mixed analysis. We share the results of our qualitative descriptive analysis (based on open coding from GTM) alongside those from our inferential statistical analysis, followed by the transition from qualitative relational analysis (derived from the selective coding process of GTM) to estimating the hypothesized SEM, which also incorporates qualitative supporting data. Finally, we provide a definition of iterative mixed analysis and discuss conclusions regarding the combined and simultaneous use of explanatory models.
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Keywords
Evaluation of social programs, Iterative mixed analysis, Grounded theory methodology, Structural equation modeling