It permits you to move from simply describing a phenomenon observed to generalizing about various aspects of that phenomenon. Having a theory helps you to identify the limits to those generalizations. A theoretical framework specifies which key variables influence a phenomenon of interest.
It alerts you to examine how those key variables might differ and under what circumstances. Strategies for Developing the Theoretical Framework I. Developing the Framework Here are some strategies to develop of an effective theoretical framework: Examine your thesis title and research problem. The research problem anchors your entire study and forms the basis from which you construct your theoretical framework. Brainstorm on what you consider to be the key variables in your research.
Answer the question, what factors contribute to the presumed effect? Review related literature to find answers to your research question. List the constructs and variables that might be relevant to your study. Group these variables into independent and dependent categories.
Review the key social science theories that are introduced to you in your course readings and choose the theory or theories that can best explain the relationships between the key variables in your study [note the Writing Tip on this page]. Discuss the assumptions or propositions of this theory and point out their relevance to your research.
Purpose Think of theories as the conceptual basis for understanding, analyzing, and designing ways to investigate relationships within social systems. Structure and Writing Style The theoretical framework may be rooted in a specific theory , in which case, you are expected to test the validity of an existing theory in relation to specific events, issues, or phenomena.
In writing this part of your research paper, keep in mind the following: Clearly describe the framework, concepts, models, or specific theories that underpin your study. This includes noting who the key theorists are in the field who have conducted research on the problem you are investigating and, when necessary, the historical context that supports the formulation of that theory.
This latter element is particularly important if the theory is relatively unknown or it is borrowed from another discipline. Position your theoretical framework within a broader context of related frameworks , concepts, models, or theories. There will likely be several concepts, theories, or models that can be used to help develop a framework for understanding the research problem.
Therefore, note why the framework you've chosen is the appropriate one. The present tense is used when writing about theory. You should make your theoretical assumptions as explicit as possible. Theoretical framework A theoretical framework is a single formal theory. Conceptual framework A conceptual framework includes one or more formal theories in part or whole as well as other concepts and empirical findings from the literature.
Investigate theory Identifying and learning about theories requires a different search strategy than other types of research. Think broadly and consider theories from a variety of fields: psychology: human development, cognition, personality, motivation sociology: social change, race, class, gender business: leadership, management health: patient care, well-being, environment Think big and save complex, theoretical works for later in your research.
Begin by looking for overviews of theories in: course textbooks encyclopedias and handbooks books credible websites. Theory in doctoral research Identifying a theory that aligns with your dissertation or doctoral study takes time. Explore theories being used in: your theory courses completed dissertations and doctoral studies encyclopedias and handbooks the scholarly literature on your topic Keep a list of theories and take notes on how and why they were used.
Cherry, Kendra. Introduction to Research Methods: Theory and Hypothesis. Welcome Presentation on Hypothesis. Slideshare presentation. Theories are meant to be tested and their underlying assumptions challenged; they are not rigid or intransigent, but are meant to set forth general principles for explaining phenomena or predicting outcomes. Given this, testing theoretical assumptions is an important way that knowledge in any discipline develops and grows.
If you're asked to apply an existing theory to a research problem, the analysis may include the expectation by your professor that you should offer modifications to the theory based on your research findings. Indications that theoretical assumptions may need to be modified can include the following:. Philipsen, Kristian. Per Vagn Freytag and Louise Young, editors. Singapore: Springer Nature, , pp.
Search this Guide Search. Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper Offers detailed guidance on how to develop, organize, and write a college-level research paper in the social and behavioral sciences. The Abstract Executive Summary 4. The Introduction The C. The Discussion Limitations of the Study 9. The Conclusion Appendices Definition Theories are formulated to explain, predict, and understand phenomena and, in many cases, to challenge and extend existing knowledge within the limits of critical bounding assumptions.
Importance of Theory A theoretical framework consists of concepts and, together with their definitions and reference to relevant scholarly literature, existing theory that is used for your particular study. The theoretical framework strengthens the study in the following ways : An explicit statement of theoretical assumptions permits the reader to evaluate them critically.
The theoretical framework connects the researcher to existing knowledge. Guided by a relevant theory, you are given a basis for your hypotheses and choice of research methods.
Articulating the theoretical assumptions of a research study forces you to address questions of why and how. It permits you to intellectually transition from simply describing a phenomenon you have observed to generalizing about various aspects of that phenomenon.
Having a theory helps you identify the limits to those generalizations. A theoretical framework specifies which key variables influence a phenomenon of interest and highlights the need to examine how those key variables might differ and under what circumstances. Strategies for Developing the Theoretical Framework I. Developing the Framework Here are some strategies to develop of an effective theoretical framework: Examine your thesis title and research problem.
The research problem anchors your entire study and forms the basis from which you construct your theoretical framework. Brainstorm about what you consider to be the key variables in your research. Answer the question, "What factors contribute to the presumed effect?
Published on October 14, by Sarah Vinz. Revised on October 22, Theories are developed by researchers to explain phenomena, draw connections, and make predictions. In the theoretical framework , you explain the theories that support your research, showing that your work is grounded in established ideas.
Table of contents The goal of a theoretical framework How to create a theoretical framework The structure of the theoretical framework Example of a theoretical framework. Before you start your research, you have to explore what theories and models other researchers have already developed.
The goal of a theoretical framework is to present and explain this information. There may be many different theories about your topic, so the theoretical framework also involves evaluating, comparing, and selecting the most relevant ones.
This part of your dissertation lays the foundations that will support your analysis, helping you interpret your results and make broader generalizations. How to create a theoretical framework To build your theoretical framework, follow these three steps.
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