Axial coding and the grounded theory controversy

The purpose of this article is to describe the similarities and differences between two approaches to grounded theory research: grounded theory as esp oused by Glaser and grounded theory as espoused by Strauss and Corbin. The focus of the article is the controversy surrounding the use of axial coding . The author proposes a resolution to the controversy by suggesting that on e does not need to view either approach as right or wrong; rather the quali tative and grounded theory researcher can choose on approach, and that choi ce is based on the goal of the researcher's study. Examples of both approac hes, from the author's research study on the experiences of living in a fam ily with a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), are provided.