Theoretical and Conceptual Framework Research 10 Theoretical framework •a structure that supports a research study's theory, •a crucial first step in a research paper, thesis, or dissertation. •It's a foundation that provides the theoretical assumptions for a study, and helps to guide the research focus and data analysis. Theoretical Framework •a structure that guides research by providing a systematic way to look at the problem being studied. •It’s based on existing theories and concepts that help the researcher interpret the data and understand the relationships between variables Components of Theoretical Framework 1. 2. 3. 4. Key Concepts and Variables Theoretical Perspectives Relationships Between Variables Research Questions or Hypotheses Components of Theoretical Framework 1. Key Concepts and Variables - The theoretical framework introduces the key variables and concepts relevant to the research topic. For example, in a study about the impact of social media on youth behavior, concepts like "social media usage" and "youth behavior" would be Components of Theoretical Framework 2. Theoretical Perspectives - The framework should reference relevant theories or models that help explain the relationships between the variables. For instance, if studying organizational behavior, you might refer to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs or Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory. Components of Theoretical Framework 3. Relationships Between Variables - A theoretical framework helps explain how the key concepts or variables in the study are expected to interact. It explains the assumptions and the theoretical basis for these relationships, guiding the direction of data collection and analysis. Components of Theoretical Framework 4. Research Questions or Hypotheses - Often, the framework is aligned with the study’s research questions or hypotheses, providing a structure for the study’s aim and focus. How to develop a Theoretical Framework 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Review the Literature Select the Relevant Theory/ Model Defi ne your Key Variables Develop the Framework Link the Framework to your research How to develop a Theoretical Framework 1. Review the Literature - Begin by reviewing existing literature on your research topic. Identify the major theories, concepts, and models that have been previously used to explain similar problems. For example, if studying the effects of social media on mental health, you might explore the Social Comparison Theory or Media Dependency Theory.