- Reflect on this definition and then define theory in your own words in your discussion post.
- Explain how both theories and research can have practical applications in work with families.
- In thinking about the application of research and theory to understanding families and development, which is more meaningful in your opinion: conclusions derived from individual research studies or scientific theories? In other words, which do you think can best help families live more fulfilling lives, theories, or research? Justify your position using information from your text.
- Finally, critique two classmates’ posts who take an alternative perspective on the matter of research vs. theory that you discussed in #3. Cite your text to support your position.
Introduction
Theories are a way of organizing and understanding our experiences. They describe how things work and why things happen, but they don’t tell us what to do. Research is the process by which scientists try to discover or confirm new facts or theories about something. In this guide, we’ll explore these two concepts in detail so you can understand them better as you continue learning about psychology!
Reflect on this definition and then define theory in your own words in your discussion post.
Theory is a set of ideas that explains something.
For example, when people learn about the theory of evolution, they are learning about a way to explain why animals and plants have become different types over time. The theory also helps predict what will happen in the future based on past events and how those events have changed over time.
Explaining how both theories and research can have practical applications in work with families
It is important to note that both theories and research can have practical applications in work with families. For example, a therapist may use an approach based on attachment theory to develop a therapeutic relationship with a client. This type of therapy would be considered “theory-driven” because it relies on the understanding of how relationships develop; however, using this type of approach does not mean that you do not need any other skills or knowledge when working with clients.
Another way to think about this is: what makes something theory driven? In this case it means that there are multiple ideas about how things work together within one area/topic area (like attachment). The idea behind this method is that if we understand these theories well enough then we can apply them successfully in practice without having lots of experience doing exactly what those theories say should happen before applying them successfully.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, theories and research can both be used to gain new information about families. Theoretical approaches look at larger issues and offer more in-depth views of issues related to family dynamics, while research-based studies provide data that can be used for practical applications. Both have their place in helping us understand families better as well as improving our work with them!