---

The strength of grounded theory as a research methodology lies in the unique strategies, techniques and procedural principles. This approach to research is nonetheless flexible and open to evolution and advancement. This paper will describe the data generation, data analysis and theoretical integration processes employed in grounded theory methodology using as an example the findings of a research study into mentoring in rural nursing practice. Techniques of situational analysis and social worlds mapping will be described and explained. The use of modelling, diagrams and theoretical codes in grounded theory development will also be explored in this presentation.