When a researcher begins with a specific case or participant, and then applies those findings to subsequent participants in order to develop a theory, they are?

They are "utilizing a cross-case method approach and grounded theory".

Grounded Theory is an inductive strategy. Albeit numerous call Grounded Theory a subjective strategy, it isn't. It is a general technique. It is the methodical age of hypothesis from efficient research. It is an arrangement of thorough research strategies prompting the development of applied classifications.

its d i know cause i've been googling it

the answer is solomon northrup. he was a free-born african american, abolitionist and professional violinist that was drugged, kidnapped and sold as slave in 1841 and remained in captivity until 1853 where he regained his freedom with the of the then-governor of new york, washington hunt. he wrote and published his memoirs "twelve years a slave" in 1853, and in this text, he tells the story of his escape thru one of louisiana's swamps (the great pacoudrie swamp) in which he ended up covered in green slime from crossing the surface of the dead water.