Interviewing in phenomenology and grounded theory: is there a difference?

This paper explores the differences and similarities that may exist in resp ect of using the interview method in phenomenological and grounded theory m ethodologies. Baker et al. set out to differentiate between method in groun ded theory and phenomenology and concluded that it was essential to ensure that the method matches the research question being asked. However, the pap er, whilst clear in intent to differentiate between the methodologies of ph enomenology and grounded theory, does little to help the researcher in the differences that may exist in carrying out such research using the same met hod, that is, interviewing. Interviewing has become synonymous with qualita tive research and may become the accepted method of data collection irrespe ctive of methodology. We postulate that the interview as a method of data c ollection may be inconsistent with the underlying principles of the methodo logy (phenomenology or grounded theory). Should this be the case then the i nterview as a means of collecting data may be viewed as generic and lack a clear connection to the methodological framework. Such a position could be consistent with a critique of qualitative nursing research on the grounds o f rigour.