LESSON 2

THEORY CONSTRUCTION

ABSTRACTION

Understanding a phenomenon scientifically requires theory

construction. This theory will be utilized to understand and counteract
the phenomenon needs a careful selection of data.

In the past, there was no systematic and organized method for the
formulation and verification of sociological theory. Today, theorists are
able to know if their theories are valid or invalid because of the
standard of verification of theories. Theory construction process
happens in a social situation and would depend on the environmental
of the thinker and his/he personal inclination.

STEPS IN CONSTRUCTION AND FORMULATION OF A THEORY

CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP

Logical explanation of the causal relationship between independent

and dependent variables must be evident. The elements of universality
and uniformity with reference to time and space must be present in
explaining the case and effect relationship.

DEFINITION OF CONCEPTS

Concepts in a proposition must be defined and explained clearly so

that they may give a precise and meaningful characteristics. A
proposition in theory construction means a statement putting forth in
idea.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CONCEPTS

A logical relationship between the well defined concepts of the

proposition must be evident. This means that concepts should be
explained with logic and reason, which should be clear from any
confusion or contraction.

THEORICAL CONCEPTS

These refer to the changing values or variables and subjected to

testing. They are considered to be an important component in theory
construction because the validity of sociological theory is based on
the validity of hypothesis to be tested.

HYPOTHESIS TESTING

The proposed hypothesis is tested through scientific research

methods.

DATA ANALYSIS

Collection of data and its analysis are based on the tested and verified
hypothesis. Data analysis gives findings that are sometimes in favor
and sometimes against the hypothesis.

GENERALIZATION

Interpretation and generalization of collected data are then made to

develop a theory. This is considered to be very crucial and critical
stage of theory construction because the findings may be interpreted
in many ways, and there is danger pf misinterpretation in the findings.

EVALUATION OF THEORY

A theory is then evaluated based on the collected facts interpretation

and when generalization has been made. A theory may be evaluated
as true or false, partially or fully. The first step of theory is called
“postulate” and its mathematical form is called “law”.
 SUMMARY
Scientific understanding of a phenomenon requires the construction of
a theory. This theory is the basis for predicting, manipulating,
controlling, and counteracting the phenomenon and also, for relating
the phenomenon to other phenomena. The steps in construction and
formulation of a theory are: (1) casual relationship, (2) definition of
concepts, (3) relationship between concepts, (4) theorical concepts,
(5) hypothesis testing, (6) data analysis, (7) generalization, and (8)
evaluation of theory.