Role of Theory in Research

Role of Theory in Research

Theory plays a crucial role in research by providing reasoning and justification for the existence of phenomena. It serves as the foundation for understanding why certain phenomena should be studied. Grant and Osanloo (2014) emphasize the importance of theory by metaphorically describing it as the "blueprint" of a house, offering a clear view of the research's goal and direction. A solid theoretical foundation guides the selection of methodology and epistemology (Burkholder et al., 2020).

Moral Development and Psychodynamic Theories and Epistemological Assumptions

I align with both Moral Development and Psychodynamic theories, as they offer foundational perspectives that support key epistemological assumptions. The moral development theory outlines a framework for understanding decision-making, socio-emotional impacts, and the ways individuals navigate within and across systems.

Psychodynamic theory, developed by Sigmund Freud and later expanded by Alfred Adler and Erik Erikson, explores personality development influenced by early parental interaction, instinctual drives, and social contexts (Burkholder et al., 2020). It emphasizes the impact of life experiences, symbolic interactions, and social learning on one’s worldview. These elements help explain the roots of social change and are examined through an individual’s internal world in relation to external conditions.

Both theories enable a critical examination of societal gaps and systemic inequities. Epistemologically, they support the use of both qualitative and quantitative methods to observe and explain phenomena. The axiological assumption embedded in this approach is the commitment to unbiased observation. Furthermore, these frameworks create the opportunity to test hypotheses using both inductive and deductive reasoning.

References

Burkholder, G. J., Cox, K. A., Crawford, L. M., & Hitchcock, J. H. (Eds.). (2020). Research design and methods: An applied guide for the scholar-practitioner. SAGE Publications, Inc.

Grant, C., & Osanloo, A. (2014). Understanding, selecting, and integrating a theoretical framework in dissertation research: Creating the blueprint for your “house.” Administrative Issues Journal: Connecting Education, Practice, and Research, 4(2), 12–26. https://doi.org/10.5929/2014.4.2.9