DEFINING

AND
REFINING THE
PROBLEM
UNIT 2

BASIC RESEARCH METHODS

 overview

TYPES OF RESEARCH

APPROACHES

RESEARCH QUESTION

PROBLEM STATEMENT

RESEARCH GAP*

LITERATURE REVIEW
 Types of Research
Purpose, approach, methods, timeframe, data sources
Based on Purpose

Basic Research vs. Applied Research

Purpose: To expand knowledge by discovering new

Purpose: To solve specific, practical problems by
theories, principles, or phenomena without
applying existing theories or principles.
immediate practical application.

Focus: Understanding underlying concepts and Focus: Addressing real-world issues and developing
building foundational knowledge. practical solutions.

Example: Studying the effect of certain genes on Example: Designing a new medical treatment based
human behavior without direct therapeutic goals. on research findings about a disease
Based on Purpose

Action Research vs. Evaluation Research

Purpose: To solve an immediate problem through iterative Purpose: To assess the effectiveness, value, or impact
cycles of planning, action, observation, and reflection. of a program, policy, or intervention.

Focus: Collaboration with participants to bring about Focus: Measuring outcomes and determining the
practical change. success of a specific initiative.

Methods: Cyclical process involving reflection and

Methods: Surveys, interviews, impact assessments.
feedback.

Example: Working with a group of teachers to improve

Example: Evaluating the success of a mental health
their use of technology in the classroom through iterative
program aimed at public
feedback and adjustments.
Based on Approach

Qualitative Research vs. Quantitative Research

Purpose: To explore, understand, and interpret complex Purpose: To quantify variables and analyze patterns
phenomena through detailed descriptions. using numerical data.

Focus: Insights into attitudes, behaviors, experiences, and Focus: Measuring and analyzing relationships, trends, or
social contexts. phenomena with statistical methods.

Methods: Interviews, focus groups, observations, case

Methods: Surveys, experiments, statistical analysis.
studies.

Example: Measuring the number of hours someone

Example: Investigating people views on mental health
spends on social media daily and its correlation with
through in-depth interviews.
anxiety levels.

Mixed methods research

Based on Methods

Descriptive Research vs. Analytical Research

Purpose: To examine, explain, or evaluate a

Purpose: To describe characteristics, behaviors, or
phenomenon by analyzing data to identify causes and
phenomena as they currently exist.
relationships.

Focus: Providing a detailed account of the subject Focus: Understanding the 'why' or 'how' behind
without explaining causes. observed trends or issues.

Methods: Data analysis, experiments, statistical

Methods: Surveys, observational studies, case studies.
models.

Example: Describing the work preferences of Gen Z in Example: Analyzing how leadership styles impact
various industries. employee engagement and productivity.
Based on Methods

Exploratory Research vs. Explanatory Research

Purpose: To investigate an area where little is known or Purpose: To explain why and how a phenomenon
where existing knowledge is insufficient. occurs by identifying causes and relationships.

Focus: Identifying patterns, formulating hypotheses, or Focus: Determining causal relationships between
gaining initial insights into a topic. variables.

Methods: Experiments, regression analysis, case

Methods: Literature reviews, interviews, focus groups.
studies.

Example: Exploring the impact of media on the political Example: Explaining how the rise of remote work
views. influences Gen Z’s job satisfaction and productivity.
Based on Methods

Experimental Research vs. Non-Experimental Research

Purpose: To establish cause-and-effect relationships by Purpose: To observe phenomena as they naturally

manipulating one or more independent variables. occur without manipulating variables.

Focus: Testing hypotheses through controlled Focus: Describing or correlating variables without
experiments. proving causal relationships.

Methods: Randomized controlled trials, laboratory Methods: Observational studies, surveys, case
experiments. studies.

Example: Testing the effect of sleep deprivation on Example: Surveying online shopping behavior without
cognitive performance manipulating the shopping experience.
Based on Time frame

Cross-Sectional Research vs. Longitudinal Research

Purpose: To analyze data from a population at a specific Purpose: To observe the same subjects over a period of
point in time. time to track changes and developments.

Focus: Studying trends, changes, and developments over

Focus: Snapshot of variables or groups in one period.
time

Methods: Surveys, observational studies. Methods: Long-term surveys, cohort studies, case studies.

Example: Examining people attitudes toward sustainability at Example: Studying how career preferences evolve over 10
one point in time. years.
Qualitative research includes descriptive research, exploratory research,
and action research.

Quantitative research includes explanatory research, experimental research,

and evaluation research.

Mixed-method research integrates both qualitative and quantitative

approaches.
Despite the wide range of research types and methods, the distinction between
qualitative and quantitative research in psychology ultimately stems from the nature
of the questions being asked.

TO SIMPLIFY -
If you're trying to understand and interpret deep psychological phenomena, qualitative
research helps uncover insights.

If you're trying to test a hypothesis or gather measurable data for patterns,

quantitative research is typically more useful.

These approaches can also be complementary. For example, mixed-methods research

combines both qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide a more
comprehensive understanding of a topic.
Types of Reasoning

Reasoning is the process of using existing knowledge to draw

conclusions, make predictions, or construct explanations .

3 types -

Inductive

Deductive

Abductive*
 Inductive Reasoning

Inductive reasoning involves deriving general principles or theories from

specific observations or data.
Researchers begin with observations, identify patterns, and then develop
broader generalizations or hypotheses.
This reasoning is commonly used in qualitative research to explore new
phenomena or generate theories.

Example: Observing consistent behaviors in a group of individuals and formulating a

theory about human behavior based on these observations.
 Deductive Reasoning

Deductive reasoning starts with a general theory, hypothesis, or premise,

and then tests it through specific observations or experiments.
This approach is often used in quantitative research, where hypotheses are
derived from theories and then empirically tested.

Example: Testing whether mindfulness interventions reduce anxiety levels, based on a

theory about mindfulness and mental health.
 Abductive Reasoning

Abductive reasoning focuses on forming the most plausible explanation for

an observation when there is incomplete information.
IIt is often used in exploratory research or case studies, where the
researcher seeks to identify the best possible explanation for observed
phenomena.

Example: Noticing an unusual pattern in survey responses and hypothesizing a cultural

influence as the most likely explanation.
Top-down approach Bottom up approach
 EXAMPLE SCENARIO - A researcher is studying how social media usage
affects the mental health of Gen Z.

1. Inductive Reasoning (Observation → Pattern → Theory)

Example: The researcher interviews several Gen Z’s and observes that
those who spend more time on social media report higher levels of
anxiety. After repeated observations and data analysis, they identified a
pattern and proposed a theory that excessive social media usage is linked
to increased anxiety among Gen Z.
 EXAMPLE SCENARIO - A researcher is studying how social media usage
affects the mental health of Gen Z.

2. Deductive Reasoning (Theory → Hypothesis → Observation)

Example: Based on the theory that high social media usage causes anxiety,
the researcher hypothesizes: "Gen Z individuals who use social media for
more than 4 hours daily will score higher on anxiety scales than those who
use it for less than 1 hour." They design a study to test this hypothesis.
 EXAMPLE SCENARIO - A researcher is studying how social media usage
affects the mental health of Gen Z.

3. Abductive Reasoning (Observation → Best Explanation)

Example: The researcher notices a sudden spike in anxiety levels among
Gen Z participants during a specific month. After investigating possible
causes, they hypothesize that it might be linked to a viral social media
challenge promoting harmful behaviour. This explanation is the most
plausible given the limited data.
Activity: Identify if the statement is Inductive or Deductive Reasoning - ANSWER

All previous research has shown that increased physical activity improves mental health.
Therefore, engaging in daily exercise will reduce symptoms of depression. - DEDUCTIVE

I observed that students who sleep less before exams tend to perform poorly. It seems
like sleep is crucial for academic success. - INDUCTIVE

According to cognitive load theory, multitasking reduces performance. Therefore,

students who multitask during lectures will have lower test scores. - DEDUCTIVE

After interviewing 20 Gen Z students, I noticed that most prefer using Instagram over
Facebook. It seems that Instagram is the most popular platform among Gen Z. -
INDUCTIVE
 RESEARCH PROBLEM AND QUESTION

1. Research Problem
A research problem is a specific issue, gap, or challenge that you want to
address or solve through your research. It describes what needs to be
studied and why the study is necessary.

Example:
Research Problem: High levels of employee burnout in the tech industry are
reducing productivity and increasing turnover.
 RESEARCH PROBLEM AND QUESTION

2. Research Question
A research question is a clear, focused, and specific question derived from
the research problem. It guides the research process by framing what you
want to find out.

Example:
Research Question: "What are the primary factors contributing to employee
burnout in the tech industry?"
 RESEARCH PROBLEM AND QUESTION
Point to remember

The research problem is framed first, followed by the research question.

Research Problem = The "What’s wrong?"

Research Question = The "What do I need to find out to solve or
understand it?"
 RESEARCH PROBLEM AND QUESTION
EXAMPLE

Topic: Sleep and Cognitive Performance

Research Problem:
University students often experience sleep deprivation, which may negatively
affect their cognitive abilities, yet the extent of this impact is not fully
understood.

Research Question:
How does sleep deprivation affect working memory and decision-making among
university students?
 ETHICAL ISSUES AND RESEARCH QUESTION
Psychological Dilemmas in Research Questions

Moral Dilemma: Should I include sensitive questions that may distress participants
for the sake of a comprehensive study?
Example: Asking about past trauma in a study on coping mechanisms.

Cognitive Dilemma: How should I balance objectivity and my personal bias when
formulating research questions?
Example: Avoiding questions that unintentionally guide participants toward a
specific response.
 ETHICAL ISSUES AND RESEARCH QUESTION

Social Dilemma: Should I focus my study on a broader population or a specif ic

community at the risk of stereotyping or misrepresentation?
Example: Studying mental health among marginalized groups without
reinforcing negative stereotypes.

E thical Dilemma: How much information should I reveal about the research
purpose without influencing participant responses?
 ETHICAL ISSUES AND RESEARCH QUESTION
Broader Problem Areas

Privacy and Confidential ity

Problem: Questions about sensitive topics like mental health, addiction, or
illegal act ivities may violate participants’ privacy.
Example: How many university students use illegal substances?

Emotional Risk to Participants

Problem: Research questions that explore trauma or grief may cause distress.
Ex ample: How does the loss of a loved one affect long-term mental health?
 ETHICAL ISSUES AND RESEARCH QUESTION
Broader Problem Areas
Cultural Sensitivity and Bias
Problem: Framing questions with cultural or personal bias can lead to
inaccurate results and alienate participants.
Example: Avoid assuming that Western concepts of mental health apply
globally

Ambiguity and Vagueness

Problem: Research questions that are too broad or vague can lead to
confusion and unreliable data.
Example: “What causes stress?” – This is too general without specifying the
context (workplace, relationships, etc.)
 ETHICAL ISSUES AND RESEARCH QUESTION
Broader Problem Areas

Scientific Validity and Feasibility

Problem: Some research questions are too complex or unmeasurable.
Example: “What is the meaning of happiness?” – This is subjective and
difficult to quantify in psychological research.
 Preliminary Research

Preliminary research (also known as exploratory research) is the initial investigation

done before the formal study begins.
It helps researchers clarify concepts, refine the research question, and understand the
broader context.

(Think of it as the "warm-up" phase of your research)

 Preliminary Research

Why is it Important?

To understand the problem: Get a clear sense of the topic’s scope.

To identify gaps: Spot what’s missing in existing research.
To refine your research question: Move from a vague idea to a focused, researchable
question.
To determine feasibility: Check if there’s enough data available and assess how
practical it is to conduct the study.
 KEY POINT TO REMEMBER

Preliminary research is part of the preparation and literature review process.

It helps you create a focused research question and justify your study’s
relevance in the Introduction section.
 RECAP - EXAMPLE STUDY

How Does Social Media Usage Affect Sleep Quality Among College
Students?

Bucket into concepts - Social media and Sleep

Identify measurable constructs - Social media usage can be through hours spent,
sleep through sleep quality index or tracker

1. Identify the research problem - College students are increasingly reporting poor
sleep quality, and some studies suggest social media may be a contributing factor.
 RECAP - EXAMPLE STUDY
How Does Social Media Usage Affect Sleep Quality Among College Students?

2. Conduct Preliminary Research

What we do:
Read existing studies on sleep disorders and social media use.
Talk to experts (like sleep therapists or psychologists) to understand if this
relationship has been researched before.
Check for research gaps.
Outcome:
limited studies focusing on college students specifically.
 RECAP - EXAMPLE STUDY
How Does Social Media Usage Affect Sleep Quality Among College Students?

3. Narrow Down and Refine the Research Problem

What we do:
Make the problem more specific: Focus on how different patterns of social media
usage (like night-time scrolling) impact sleep quality.

Refined Problem:
Does night-time social media usage reduce sleep quality in college students?
 RECAP - EXAMPLE STUDY
How Does Social Media Usage Affect Sleep Quality Among College Students?

4. Frame the Research Question

Research Question:
How does night-time social media usage affect sleep quality among college students
aged 18–25?
 RECAP - EXAMPLE STUDY
How Does Social Media Usage Affect Sleep Quality Among College Students?

5. Review Literature (Focused & Detailed)

What we do:
Review sleep studies, social media addiction research, and behaviour studies on
college students.
Identify relevant theories (e.g., Sleep Hygiene Theory, Technology and Sleep).

Methodology
Research ethics
Data collection
Data interpretation
Findings and limitations
 Research Gap

Type of Gap Explanation Example

Most studies on social media and sleep

A specific population hasn't
1. Population Gap focus on adolescents, but there’s limited
been studied.
research on college students.

Studies on social media and sleep provide

No clear theory explains the
2. Theoretical Gap descriptive data but lack a theoretical
phenomenon.
framework, such as Sleep Hygiene Theory.

Previous studies rely on self-reported

3. Methodological Issues with previous research
surveys for sleep data. No study has used
Gap methods or missing methods.
objective sleep-tracking devices.
 Research Gap

Type of Gap Explanation Example

The phenomenon is studied Most research on social media and sleep

4. Contextual Gap only in certain regions or quality is conducted in Western countries,
contexts. with minimal studies in India or Asia.

Studies on social media and sleep before

Old or outdated studies,
5. Temporal Gap 2015 don’t account for the rise of TikTok or
requiring updated research.
increased smartphone use at night.

Conflicting findings: One study shows no

Lack of sufficient or impact of night-time social media on sleep,
6. Evidence Gap
consistent evidence. while another finds a strong negative
effect.
 Key concepts or sections in ROL
LITERATURE
Introduction
REVIEW
A well-structured literature review Sources of information

gives readers a clear understanding

of what’s already known, what’s Review, Analysis
missing, and how your study fits into
the bigger picture. Research gap summary and conclusion
 Literature Review

A literature review is a survey of scholarly sources* on a specific topic.

A literature review is a comprehensive summary and analysis of existing research on a

specific topic.

It helps you understand what has already been studied, where the gaps are, and how your
research can contribute to the field.

It’s an essential part of research because it builds the foundation for your study.
 Types of Literature Review

Thematic Review: Organizes the research into themes or topics.

Example: Group studies on "social media patterns" and "sleep quality factors."

Chronological Review: Presents the evolution of research over time.

Example: How research on sleep quality has progressed over decades.

Methodological Review: Focuses on research methods used in previous studies.

Example: Compare self-reported sleep surveys with objective sleep-tracking devices.

Critical Review: Evaluates and critiques research, identifying gaps and inconsistencies.
 Scholarly sources

Peer-reviewed journal articles

Academic books or edited collections (written by scholars)
Thesis and dissertations (must be published)
Conference papers and presentations
Official reports from research institutions or universities
 Critical Lit Review
A Critical Literature Review is more than just summarizing existing research—it involves analyzing,
evaluating, and questioning the quality and validity of the studies. The goal is to identify patterns,
gaps, contradictions, and the strengths/weaknesses of the research.

Key Features of a Critical Literature Review

Evaluative, not Descriptive - Instead of just summarizing, you assess the research (e.g.,
methodology, sample size, biases).
Example: "While Smith (2022) claims social media reduces sleep quality, the study is limited
by its small sample size and self-reported data, which may affect reliability."
Identifies Gaps - Highlight what's missing or unclear in the research.
Example: "Current research focuses on sleep duration, but few studies examine the impact on
sleep quality metrics like REM cycles or subjective well-being."

Critiques Methodology - Look at how studies were conducted—were they robust, biased, or
outdated?
Example: "Studies using self-reported social media usage may suffer from recall bias, affecting
accuracy."

Synthesizes Findings - Connect different studies, showing how they agree, differ, or build on each
other.
Example: "While Johnson (2021) found no link between social media and sleep disruption,
recent studies (Lee, 2023; Patel, 2024) suggest timing of use is crucial.
 WHAT (Articulate) Specific and unambiguous

Research
Proposal WHY (Justify)
Uniqueness and how it’ll contribute
to the existing lit

HOW (Practicality) Methodology

Only a high - level view is expected