ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with the discussion of the processes by which a substantive theory is advanced to a formal one. Substantive theory is a strategic link in the formulation and generation of grounded formal theory. Since substantive theory is grounded in research on one particular substantive area, it might be taken to apply only to that specific area. Most sociologists unquestionably tend to avoid the formulation of grounded formal theory; they stay principally at the substantive level. The one-area formal theory becomes, in actuality, treated as a substantive theory to be generalized by comparative analysis. When advancing a substantive theory to a formal one, the comparative analysis of groups is the most powerful method for generating core categories and their properties and formulating a theory that fits and works. The one-area formal theory becomes, in actuality, treated as a substantive theory to be generalized by comparative analysis.
