Theoretical Frameworks

Identifying a Theoretical Framework for a Research Study

- An existing theory OR - The use of findings from previous studies that have provided evidence of an empirical relationship between variables that a researcher is interested in examining

EBP

Evidence-based practice is the collection, interpretation, and integration [not to generate new information] of valid research evidence, combined with clinical expertise and an understanding of patient and family values and preferences to inform clinical decision making. The starting point of EBP is a clinical question such as "what does the evidence say is the best approach to solving this problem?"

The Theory-Research-Practice Connection

In an integrated, reciprocal manner, theory guides research and practice, practice enables testing of theory and generates research questions, and research contributes to theory-building and establishing practice guidelines. Therefore, what is learned through practice, theory, and research interweaves to create the knowledge fabric of nursing.

Physiologic Study

Purpose: To examine the effect of respiratory muscle training vs. sham training on maximal expiratory pressure in persons with MS. Based on principles of muscle training: repetition, specificity, and reversibility Independent variable: Type of respiratory muscle training (expiratory v sham) Dependent variable: Maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures

concepts and constructs

major components of theories that convey the essential ideas or elements of a theory

operationalization

translating downward to more concrete level moves from concept to variable to measures

variables

- are at a more concrete level than concepts - represent only a portion of the concept - several variables may be used to represent one concept

Theoretical or Conceptual Framework

- can be viewed as a map for understanding the relationships between or among the variables in quantitative studies - presents the context for studying the problem - often illustrated using a diagram - integral to practice and research

Components of a Theory

- concepts - relational statements - map or model

Application of Theory in Qualitative Research: Qualitative Research GENERATES Theory

- grounded theory - findings grouped into "themes" - framework or theory usually found at the end of the manuscript in the discussion section

steps of operationalization

- identify variables used to represent concepts in framework - develop operational definitions for each variable - indicates method of measurement or observation - must be consistent with conceptual definition

theoretical framework

- introduces and describes the theory that explains why the research problem under study exists - a set of interrelated concepts that symbolically represents and convey a mental image of a phenomenon

Theoretical or Conceptual Framework

- serves as organizer - assures that all important variables are addressed - puts the study and its findings in context - relates a researchers findings to broader topic and previous work in specific field of study such as social support for frail elders

Theory

- set of interrelated concepts that provides a systematic view of a phenomenon - allows relationships to be proposed and predictions make, which in turn can suggest potential actions - beginning with a theory gives a researcher a logical way of collecting data to describe, explain, and predict nursing practice, making it critical in research

concepts in theory are translated into variables in research studies

- usually identified from a theory - based on relevance to phenomenon of concern - must have a concept for every major variable in study - examine problem statement for relevant concepts

Theory-Generating Nursing Research: Qualitative Research Studies

--Research undertaken to create or generate theory --Examines a phenomenon within a particular context and identifies and describes its major elements or events --Focuses on what and how, but does not usually attempt to explain why --Inductive; uses a process in which generalizations are developed from specific observations

a theoretical framework...

...guides the conceptual basis for study, describes how variables relate to one another, provides a rationale for predictions about the relationships among the study variables