This article explains the importance of frameworks in a thesis study and the differences between conceptual frameworks and theoretical frameworks. It provides guidelines on how to write a thesis framework, definitions of variable types, and examples of framework types.
A thesis topic can be approached from a variety of angles, depending on the theories used.
- In psychology, a behavioral approach would use different methods and assumptions compared with a cognitive approach when treating anxiety.
- In literature, a book could be analyzed using different literary theories, such as Marxism or poststructuralism.
What is a theoretical framework?
A theoretical framework provides a general framework for data analysis. It defines the concepts used and explains existing theories and models in your field of research.
A theoretical framework provides a general framework for data analysis. It defines the concepts used and explains existing theories and models in your field of research. It also explains any assumptions that were used to inform your approach and your choice of specific rationales. Theoretical frameworks are often used in the fields of social sciences.
Purpose of a theoretical framework
- Test and challenge existing theories
- Establish orderly connections between observations and facts
- Predict and control situations
- Develop hypotheses
Structuring a theoretical framework
The structure of a theoretical framework is fluid, and there are no specific rules that need to be followed, as long as it is clearly and logically presented.
The theoretical framework is a natural extension of your literature review. The literature review should identify gaps in the field of your research, and reviewing existing theories will help to determine how these can be addressed. The structure of a theoretical framework is fluid, and there are no specific rules that need to be followed, as long as it is clearly and logically presented. The theoretical framework is sometimes integrated into the literature review chapter of a thesis, but it can also be included as a separate chapter, depending on the complexity of the theories.
Example of a theoretical framework
The sales staff at Company X are unmotivated and struggling to meet their monthly targets. Some members of the management team believe that this could be achieved by implementing a comprehensive product-training program, but others believe that introducing a sales commission structure will help.
Problem:
Company X is not achieving their monthly sales targets
Objective:
To increase monthly sales.
Research question:
How can Company X motivate their sales team to achieve its monthly sales targets?
Sub-questions:
- Why do the sales staff feel unmotivated?
- What is the relationship between motivation and monetary rewards?
- Do the sales staff feel that they have sufficient product knowledge?
Theoretical framework:
A literature search will need to be performed to understand the background of the many different theories of motivation in psychology. For example, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (basic human needs—physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self-actualization—have to be fulfilled before one can live up to their true potential), Vroom’s Theory of Expectancy (people decide upon their actions based on the outcomes they expect), and Locke’s Goal-Setting Theory (goals are a key driver of one’s behavior). These theories would need to be investigated to determine which would be the best approach to increase the motivation of the sales staff in Company X so that the monthly sales targets are met.
Conclusion
A robust conceptual or theoretical framework is crucial when writing a thesis/dissertation. It defines your research gap, identifies your approach, and guides the interpretation of your results.
A thesis is the most important document you will write during your academic studies. For professional thesis editing and thesis proofreading services, check out En ago Thesis Editing services for more information.
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