Research Methodology-I
Chapter 1 Introduction to Research in Social Sciences
Theoretical Framework and Methodological Approaches in Social Research
A theoretical framework constitutes the conceptual structure or system of theories and
principles underpinning a research study. It provides the intellectual lens through which the
research problem is viewed, guiding the formulation of research questions, the identification and
operationalization of variables, and the interpretation of findings within an existing body of
knowledge. It establishes the "why" of the research by explaining the phenomenon under
investigation.
Significance:
● Problem Elucidation: Provides a logical rationale for the research problem.
● Directional Guidance: Directs the formulation of specific research questions and
hypotheses.
● Concept Definition: Aids in defining and operationalizing key constructs and variables.
● Result Interpretation: Offers a context for interpreting findings relative to existing
theories.
● Scope Delimitation: Helps to define the boundaries and focus of the study.
Methodological approaches refer to the systematic and disciplined strategies employed for
data collection and analysis in research. They dictate the "how" of a study, ensuring rigor,
validity, and reliability of findings.
Primary Methodological Approaches:
1. Quantitative Research:
○ Focus: Numerical data, statistical analysis, objective measurement.
○ Goal: Quantify variables, test hypotheses, generalize results from a sample to a
larger population.
○ Characteristics: Deductive reasoning, structured data collection (surveys,
experiments), large sample sizes, statistical analysis.
○ Examples: Measuring public opinion, assessing intervention effectiveness,
examining variable correlations.
2. Qualitative Research:
○ Focus: In-depth understanding of meanings, experiences, and contexts;
non-numerical data.
○ Goal: Explore phenomena in depth, generate theories, understand "why" and
"how."
○ Characteristics: Inductive reasoning, unstructured/semi-structured data
collection (interviews, observation), small sample sizes, thematic/interpretive
analysis.
○ Examples: Exploring lived experiences, understanding cultural practices,
gathering perceptions.
3. Mixed-Methods Technique
Mixed-methods technique integrates both quantitative and qualitative research
approaches within a single study. It involves collecting, analyzing, and mixing both numerical
and non-numerical data.
Interrelation: The theoretical framework informs the selection and design of the methodological
approach. Research questions derived from the framework determine the most appropriate
method (quantitative for measuring relationships, qualitative for exploring meaning, or mixed for
a comprehensive view). The methodological approach, in turn, dictates how data is collected
and analyzed to address the theoretically grounded questions, ultimately contributing to the
advancement or refinement of the theoretical framework.
2. Meaning, Purpose, and Function of Psychological Research
Meaning:
Psychological research is the systematic and empirical study of behavior, mental processes,
and their underlying mechanisms in individuals and groups.1 It employs scientific methodologies
to gather, analyze, and interpret data to understand phenomena such as cognition, emotion,
motivation, perception, personality, development, and social interaction.2 At its core, it is about
gaining scientific knowledge regarding why individuals think, feel, and behave in certain ways.
Purpose:
The fundamental purpose of psychological research is to expand the scientific understanding of
the mind and behavior. This overarching goal can be broken down into several specific
objectives:
1. Description: To observe, identify, and document specific behaviors or mental
processes. This involves accurately portraying characteristics of phenomena as they
naturally occur.3 (e.g., describing patterns of aggression in children).
2. Explanation: To identify the causes of behaviors and mental processes, or the
relationships between variables.4 This moves beyond mere description to uncover
underlying principles and mechanisms.5 (e.g., explaining why certain parenting styles
lead to particular behavioral outcomes).
3. Prediction: To forecast future behaviors or mental processes based on established
relationships between variables.6 If a phenomenon can be reliably explained, its future
occurrence under similar conditions can often be predicted. (e.g., predicting academic
success based on specific cognitive abilities).
4. Control/Application: To apply research findings to influence or change behavior in
beneficial ways.7 This often involves developing interventions, therapies, or strategies to
improve human well-being and address practical problems. (e.g., developing therapy
techniques to reduce anxiety or designing educational programs to enhance learning).
Function:
Psychological research serves several vital functions within society and scientific inquiry:8
● Knowledge Generation: It systematically builds the body of knowledge in psychology,
contributing to theories that explain human and animal behavior. This cumulative
knowledge forms the basis for further inquiry and deeper understanding.
● Evidence-Based Practice: It provides the empirical evidence necessary for developing
and validating effective interventions, treatments, and policies across various domains,
including clinical psychology, education, organizational psychology, and public health.
This ensures that practices are grounded in scientific findings rather than intuition or
tradition.
● Problem Solving: It addresses real-world problems by applying scientific methods to
complex human issues.9 Research helps identify the roots of problems (e.g., mental
health disorders, social biases, learning difficulties) and informs solutions.10
● Critical Thinking and Skepticism: It fosters critical thinking skills by promoting an
empirical approach to understanding human experience, encouraging evaluation of
claims based on evidence rather than anecdote or dogma.
● Informing Policy and Decision-Making: Research findings often inform public policy,
legal decisions, and organizational strategies, leading to more informed and effective
societal frameworks.11
In essence, psychological research functions as the engine of discovery in understanding the
intricacies of the mind and behavior, moving from mere observation to explanation, prediction,
and ultimately, beneficial application.
