3. According to an article released by Walden University
(2024) A theoretical framework is a single formal theory.
When a study is designed around a theoretical
framework, the theory is the primary means in which the
research problem is understood and investigated.
4. Hence, in the same article released by Walden University
(2024), A conceptual framework includes one or more
formal theories (in part or whole) as well as other concepts
and empirical findings from the literature. It is used to show
relationships among these ideas and how they relate to the
research study.
19. your primary goal is to explain and
understand the relationships between
variables or concepts.
20. If you want your research to be guided
by a well-established theory that has
been tested and validated
21. your research involves testing
hypotheses or making predictions
based on existing theories
22. your aim to generalize your findings
beyond the specific context of your
study.
23. It aligns your work with existing
scholarship and helps establish
your study within a specific
intellectual tradition.
24. Example 1: Educational Research
Statement of the Problem: Many students in urban schools face challenges in academic achievement.
The existing literature indicates a need to explore the impact of socio-economic factors, parental
involvement, and teacher-student relationships on student outcomes.
Theoretical Framework: For this study, the Ecological Systems Theory by Urie Bronfenbrenner is
employed as the theoretical framework. This theory posits that individuals are influenced by various
systems, including the microsystem (individual's immediate environment), mesosystem (connections
between microsystems), exosystem (external settings indirectly affecting the individual), and macrosystem
(cultural context).
25. Example 2: Health Psychology Research
Statement of the Problem: Patients with chronic illnesses often struggle with adherence to treatment
plans. Previous research suggests a need to understand the psychological factors that influence patient
adherence.
Theoretical Framework: The Health Belief Model (HBM) is chosen as the theoretical framework for this
study. The HBM posits that an individual's health-related behavior is influenced by their perceptions of the
severity and susceptibility to a health threat, as well as the perceived benefits and barriers to taking action.
26.
27. A research project will draw on
various theories to form a
coherent structure.
28. your focus is on organizing and structuring
your ideas, concepts, and variables, a
conceptual framework provides a roadmap
for how these elements are related.
29. When your research is highly
context-specific and doesn't fit
neatly into existing theories
32. Example 1: Marketing Research
Statement of the Problem: In the highly competitive market for eco-friendly products, companies are
seeking effective ways to communicate their sustainability efforts to consumers. There is a need to
understand the factors influencing consumers' perceptions of green marketing strategies.
Conceptual Framework: For this study, the Attitude-Behavior-Context (ABC) Model is employed as the
conceptual framework. The ABC Model posits that consumer attitudes toward green marketing (A) are
influenced by their beliefs, values, and knowledge. These attitudes, in turn, shape their purchase
behavior (B). The context (C), including cultural, social, and economic factors, moderates the relationship
between attitudes and behavior.
33. Example 2: Human Resource Management
Research
Statement of the Problem: Employee turnover is a significant concern for organizations, particularly in
the technology sector. To address this issue, it is crucial to understand the factors influencing employee
job satisfaction and retention.
Conceptual Framework: The Job Characteristics Model (JCM) is selected as the conceptual framework
for this study. The JCM identifies five core job characteristics (skill variety, task identity, task significance,
autonomy, and feedback) that impact employees' psychological states and, consequently, their job
satisfaction and motivation.
34.
35. When there are well-established theories that
provide a solid foundation for understanding
certain aspects of your research.
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
if your study involves unique variables or
contexts that are not fully addressed by existing
theories
36. may address overarching concepts and
relationships
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
can break down and explore specific
components or dimensions of the research
question in more detail.
37. where multiple disciplines contribute to
the understanding of a phenomenon, each
relevant discipline can be integrated
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
to address the interdisciplinary
aspects of the research
38. guides the testing of
established theories
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
allows for the incorporation of additional
elements or modifications to adapt the
theory to your specific study.
39. offer general principles and concepts
applicable across different settings
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
allow for the inclusion of specific
variables or factors relevant to your
unique research context.
40. may provide a broad lens for
understanding a phenomenon
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
structure the analysis and interpretation
of qualitative data. This is particularly
relevant when seeking to explore in-depth
insights within a theoretical context.
41. guide the empirical aspects
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
facilitate the application of findings in
real-world contexts.
42. Example 1: Social Psychology Research
Statement of the Problem: Online social networks have become integral to communication, but
cyberbullying is a growing concern. This study aims to understand the psychological factors contributing to
cyberbullying perpetration among adolescents.
Theoretical Framework: Social Identity Theory is chosen as the theoretical framework. This theory posits
that individuals derive a sense of identity and self-esteem from their group memberships. In the context of
cyberbullying, it helps explain how social categorization and in-group/out-group dynamics influence
behavior.
Conceptual Framework: The conceptual framework is developed based on the Theory of Planned
Behavior (TPB), which suggests that attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control influence
one's intention to engage in a behavior.
43. Example 2: Environmental Economics
Research
Statement of the Problem: Climate change mitigation requires a transition to sustainable energy sources,
but consumer adoption of renewable energy technologies is not uniform. This study investigates the factors
influencing consumers' adoption of residential solar panels.
Theoretical Framework: Diffusion of Innovations Theory is selected as the theoretical framework. This
theory explores how innovations are adopted by individuals over time. It identifies key factors such as
perceived attributes of the innovation, communication channels, social systems, and the innovation-decision
process.
Conceptual Framework: The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) is used as a conceptual framework.
TAM suggests that perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness influence users' acceptance of
technology. Here, TAM is adapted to the context of residential solar panels, incorporating elements from
Diffusion of Innovations Theory.
44. REMEMBER
The decision to use both frameworks
depends on the specific needs and
nature of your research.
45. • "Distinguishing between Theory, Theoretical Framework, and Conceptual Framework: A Systematic Review
of Lessons from the Field." International Journal of Higher Education 7 (2018): 44-53;
• Labaree, R. V. (n.d.). Research Guides: Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper: Theoretical
Framework. Libguides.usc.edu.
https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/theoreticalframework#:~:text=A%20theoretical%20framework%20speci
fies%20which
• Lemieux, A. (2021). Academic Guides: Theories and Frameworks: Introduction. Academicguides.waldenu.edu.
https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/library/theory
• Singh, S. (2023, July 20). What is a Conceptual Framework and How to Make It (with Examples) |
Researcher.Life. Researcher.life. https://researcher.life/blog/article/what-is-a-conceptual-framework-and-how-
to-make-it-with-examples/
References
47. A problem statement is an explanation
in research that describes the issue
that is in need of study.
48. Why do we need to align the
statement of the problem to
theoretical or conceptual
framework?
49. Reasons why statement
of the problem and
theoretical/conceptual
framework should be
aligned.
Establishing
Context
Clarifying
Purpose and
Rationale
Framing
Research
Questions or
Hypotheses
Providing a
Theoretical /
Conceptual
Lens
Ensuring
Consistency
50. Reasons why statement
of the problem and
theoretical/conceptual
framework should be
aligned.
Establishing
Context
Clarifying
Purpose and
Rationale
Framing
Research
Questions or
Hypotheses
Providing a
Theoretical /
Conceptual
Lens
Ensuring
Consistency
51. Reasons why statement
of the problem and
theoretical/conceptual
framework should be
aligned.
Establishing
Context
Clarifying
Purpose and
Rationale
Framing
Research
Questions or
Hypotheses
Providing a
Theoretical /
Conceptual
Lens
Ensuring
Consistency
52. Reasons why statement
of the problem and
theoretical/conceptual
framework should be
aligned.
Establishing
Context
Clarifying
Purpose and
Rationale
Framing
Research
Questions or
Hypotheses
Providing a
Theoretical /
Conceptual
Lens
Ensuring
Consistency
53. Reasons why statement
of the problem and
theoretical/conceptual
framework should be
aligned.
Establishing
Context
Clarifying
Purpose and
Rationale
Framing
Research
Questions or
Hypotheses
Providing a
Theoretical /
Conceptual
Lens
Ensuring
Consistency
54. Reasons why statement
of the problem and
theoretical/conceptual
framework should be
aligned.
Establishing
Context
Clarifying
Purpose and
Rationale
Framing
Research
Questions or
Hypotheses
Providing a
Theoretical /
Conceptual
Lens
Ensuring
Consistency
55. How to align the statement
of the problem and
theoretical/conceptual
framework?
56. Identify the Research Problem
Link the Problem to Theory
Conceptualize the Problem and
Highlight the Research Gap
Formulate Research
Questions or Hypotheses
Address Research Objectives
and Provide a Roadmap
Aligning
statement of
the problem to
theoretical/
conceptual
framework
57. “Without data, you’re just
another person with an
opinion”
-W. Edwards Deming
American Engineer
58. • What is a Problem Statement? With Examples | Author Services Blog. (2022, April 4).
Elsevier Author Services - Articles. https://scientific-
publishing.webshop.elsevier.com/research-process/what-problem-statement-
examples/#:~:text=The%20problem%20statement%20is%20your
Reference