Theory and Research Methodology

The task at hand entails searching peer-reviewed research literature and selecting a few studies to carefully examine and further critique with respect to the extent and manner by which the research is situated within a theoretical framework.

Before starting this chapter, view these videos:

Writing the Methodology chapter in a dissertation | YouTube (Cecile Badenhorst, 2015)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6ZoCuzixao

Theoretical & Conceptual Frameworks in the Dissertation | YouTube (Frances Chumney, 2016)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBRkbNDqpMM

First: Perform a peer-reviewed* research literature review, looking specifically at empirical research studies that are of interest to the Dissertation topic on Mental Health and the African American Community. Select two interesting studies that represent the topic of interest and offer opportunity to review theoretical underpinnings. Paper should be 7-9 pages in total.

*Note: Dissertation studies are NOT peer-reviewed. Thus, do NOT select/include dissertation research studies for this task.

Next: Carefully read through the studies selected a few times or so, placing careful thought and consideration to the extent and manner by which the research is situated within a theoretical framework.
Finally: Prepare a 2- to 3-page critical analysis of each study, focusing specifically on the extent and manner by which the research is situated within a particular theoretical framework, to address each of the following items:

1. Introduction of the study (one paragraph):

• Purpose of the study
• Problem statement
• Main theory

2. Theoretical Framework/Foundation:

• Is the theory (or theoretical Framework) of the study implied and/or explicitly mentioned in the study?
• If yes, is this theory connected to a specific aspect of the study OR is this embedded throughout the study as a whole?
• If no, how would a different theoretical perspective alter the study—if at all?

3. Research methodology and research design:

• How does the identified theory support the research methodology of each study?
• How do the authors present the validity and reliability of the instruments they used for the theory? If they do not, what suggestions do you have to enhance the quality of the study?

4. Conclusion and Reflection:

• Conclusions & implications put forth by authors.
• Personal reflections on both studies.