Concepts, Constructs, Variables And Theory

Concepts, Constructs, Variables and Theory: A Clarification

Concepts • • • •

Building blocks of theory Abstract Represent broad, general idea Not directly observable

Theory • Systematic; abstract explanation of some aspect of reality • Primary goal is to provide a framework that links research and practice and contributes to making findings a meaningful and generalizable

Function Theory Provides • Structure for interpretation of findings • Means for summarizing and explaining observations for an isolated study • Source to generate hypothesis • Framework for guiding research • Guide for selecting appropriate method • Basis to describe, explain or predict factors influencing nursing outcomes

Constructs • Concepts specified in such away they are observable in the real world • Invented

Variables • Concepts that are observable and measurable • Have a dimension that can vary • Narrow in meaning