I had made a synopsis proposal where I wanted to work on a theory. I had chosen the variables accordingly. My PhD supervisor has, however, suggested me that I should not do so as it would narrow down the interpretation of my findings. He has instead suggested me to keep the variables that I had chosen to work on, but rather than focusing too much on one theory, I should focus on interpretation from different perspectives.
So far I had understood that working on a theory provides a sound basis to your results and once the theoretical assumptions are found valid after collecting more evidence, the research is considered of value.
How should I proceed now ? Please provide some valuable insights. How important it is to work on a theory in scientific field? I am from Psychology field. I have earlier worked on a theory and it really made me think deeply. That's why I am fascinated about working on theories.
Hi Tarun,
Human behavior is very complex and as such there are many sound theories for any single given behavior. Focusing on one helps but doing so may ignore weaknesses in that single theory which other theories may solve. In my opinion it is best to show how well a set of theories explain a given phenomenon or find a way to have theories either compete for explained variation or to have them work together to see how they both may explain a single phenomenon.
Actually I agree with u in part as Theory always gives a concrete base to your research Tarun. But as you are doing the work in Psychology your guide is giving a right approach as for the human mind ; we can't rely on one single theory. We can have different results and responses from the people and if you are depending on one theory ; there are chances to miss the observations. So its better to follow your guide's instructions in my view.
Is it better to work on a Theory or not ?
Research is advisable to underpin on previous / existing theory or theoretical framework because they serve as "safety net" or "life float" so that you will not fall / sink albeit being questioned by article reviewers / thesis examiners. If our developed conceptual framework / research model is not underpinning on those theory / theoretical framework, then our framework / model can subject to challenge / critique that we need to defend.
Suggesting develop your draft conceptual framework / research model based on your research problem, objective(s) as well as your variables from rigorous literature review. Then review the literature on those theory / theoretical framework that your conceptual framework / research model can build up from there. There is possibility that you need to amend your conceptual framework / research model to strategically fit into the underpinning theory / theoretical framework plus additional variables add-on / changes that can contribute to new knowledge. Wishing you all the best.
In case you work with quantitative methods, you should base on a theory to explain the relationship between variables/ constructs. If not, you may not be able to publish for sure.
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