The Pros And Cons Of Defining Theory

Introduction

Individuals create and at times state theories that explain events and circumstances. The term theory is used in daily language when people attempt to make connections to understand an event or influence another’s understanding of the reason or justification for a circumstance (Merriam-Webster 's collegiate dictionary, 2016). However, there is more to the term theory. Defining theory has been the subject of great inquiry across various disciplines. If a small group of academic researchers were asked to define theory each person would have submit a different definition, yet the core concept of what theory is would be consistent.

Defining Theory

Harlow (2009) stated there is not a universal meaning or fixed definition of the word.

A requirement for any basic theory needs a clear and concise description of the phenomena or behavior being studied that clarifies the relationship among the constructs or entities. In the scientific community developing or building a theory needs to produce further interest in the field of study. Wacker discussed fecundity as an important element in the same manner as having heuristic value. Moore (2013) noted that science should be theoretically liberated to entertain concepts involving unobservable for explanatory or heuristic purposes (Moore, J., 2013).

Behavioral science seeks to apply the theories in a natural setting and using a hypothesis would be unethical. He described the necessity to have a theory that generates interest in the subject or model expanding the area of investigation into a new conceptual area (Wacker, J., 1998). Gelso stated that good scientific theory must stimulate inquiry and Moore described the intention of theory as forming an explanation for the behavior warranting further examination. Additionally, a theory needs to be

There are some sharp differences between the authors explanation of a theory. Moore, who critiqued behaviorism by providing various viewpoints of the branch of psychology, defined a theory as a provisional statement with the aim to postulate theoretical constructs that can account for past, current, and future observations in order to invoke observable variables that operationally define the theoretical constructs in the theory (Moore, J., 2013). However, Wacker stated three major criticisms of theory or theories in general: do not have to be applied, it does not make significant improvements exterior of a clinical setting, and theory does not exist due to the lock of measurement of definitions.

For behaviorist, applying theory in order to evoke observable changes in the environment using precise operational definitions counters the general perceptions of theory. Furthermore, Wacker noted theories needed to be unique to conserve current theories and said new theories should be superior in order to apply them to more areas.

Research Contributions to