Using Grounded Theory to Develop a Substantive Theory for Grandparent-Caregiving in Uganda: The GRACE Model

Introduction: Few studies have focused on developing theories to explain caregiving as performed by grandparents who provide care for their grandchildren in any setting. Theory development that is grounded in the experiences and cultural context of those being studied is needed to inform research, subsequent care, and overall well-being, especially of populations that are understudied. Methods: This manuscript was informed by Constructivist Grounded Theory, semi-structured in-depth and individual interviews. Also, three methodological phases were followed: (a) concurrent data collection and analysis procedures, (b) developing categories and relationships among them, and (c) defining the core category and building the substantive theory. Results: The methodological steps involved in generating a substantive theory, the GRAndparent-CarEgiving (GRACE) model, are reported. Discussion: Research, and subsequently the well-being and health care of grandparent-caregivers, needs to be informed by culturally congruent theories that are founded in the experiences and cultural context of the individuals being investigated.