Theoretical and

Conceptual Framework
Fundamentals, Description and Frameworks

By: Alhsmar Sayago

Theory
Theories are constructed in order to explain, predict and
master phenomena (e.g. relationships, events, or the
behavior). In many instances we are constructing models of
reality.

A theory makes generalizations about observations and

consists of an interrelated, coherent set of ideas and models.

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A theoretical framework is analogous to the frame of the
house.
Just as the foundation supports a house, a theoretical
framework provides a rationale for predictions about the
relationships among variables of a research study

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Theoretical Framework

• It provides a context for examining a problem i.e.

theoretical rationale for:
• Developing hypotheses

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Theoretical Framework
• A frame of reference/base for
• Observations
• Definitions of concepts
• Research designs
• Interpretations
• Generalizations
• Serves as a guide to systematically identify
logical, precisely defined relationships among
variables
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The Use of a Theoretical Framework as a Guide
in a Research Study
The theoretical framework plays an important role in guiding the entire
process of the research study

Theories are constructed in order to explain and master

phenomena (e.g. relationships, events, or the behavior). In
many instances we are constructing models of reality.
A theory makes generalizations about observations and
consists of an interrelated, coherent set of ideas and models.

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How to create the Theoretical Framework?

• Identify the variables

• Define the technical terms
• Identify the relevant and related theories
• Connect the relationships of the variables with respect to
the theories

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How to create the Theoretical Framework?

• Identify the variables

• Define the technical terms
• Identify the relevant and related theories
• Connect the relationships of the variables with respect to
the theories

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Thesis Title: A Case Study on the Sex
Buyers in General Santos City

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Conceptual Framework
A conceptual framework is used in research to outline
possible courses of action or to present a preferred
approach to an idea or thought.

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Conceptual Framework
This consists of concepts that are placed within a
logical and sequential design.
• represents less formal structure and used for studies in
which existing theory is inapplicable or insufficient;
• based on specific concepts and propositions, derived from
empirical observation and intuition;
• may deduce theories from a conceptual framework.

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Conceptual Framework
Purposes of Conceptual Framework
• To clarify concepts and propose relationships among the
concepts in a study;
• To provide a context for interpreting the study findings;
• To explain observations;
• To encourage theory development that is useful to practice

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Thesis Title: A Case Study on the Sex
Buyers in General Santos City

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Drawing the Conceptual Path Model

Direction of the Arrow

Indicates which concepts affect and are affected by other concepts. If a concept has
an arrow pointing to it, it is call an endogenous concept. This concept is being
explained by other concepts in the model. If a concept has no arrow pointing to it,
its values are determined by relations that occur outside the model under study.
Such a concept with no arrows pointing to it is called an exogenous concept.

* Solid line
Indicates that an abstract concept has been broken down into analytical dimensions
for the purpose of creating operational definitions. Usually there are more abstract
concepts that are placed above the dimensions in the diagram to indicate a more
abstract concept.
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Drawing the Conceptual Path Model

Square
A square drawn around a concept indicates that this is a measured variable, that
information reflecting the values of this variable has been obtained through some
operational definition.
Examples of directly measured concepts measured by one variable include age and
gender.

Ellipse
An ellipse drawn around a concept indicates that this concept is comprised of
information from more than one operationally defined variable. It is termed a latent
concept or variable meaning that operational definitions have to be created to
measure it.
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END

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