AguilarT PSY 7103-6

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Explain Strategies to Operationally Define and Measure Variables and Constructs Tanya Aguilar Assignment 6 Research Methods – PSY 7103 Northcentral University June 2023

Part 1 Quantitative Research: The study used three questionnaires to measure the three primary dependent variables: bereaved adults' grief, post-traumatic growth, and coping strategies. Participants were given the Post-traumatic Growth Inventory to assess their level of post-traumatic growth in the wake of parental death. There are five dimensions to this 21-item scale: opening oneself to new opportunities, connecting with others, growing in strength and spirituality, and valuing one's own life. Short and validated, the 9-item Adult Attitude to Grief Scale assesses how people deal with and react to loss. Lastly, The Coping Assessment for Bereavement and Loss Experiences (CABLE) , this psychometric scale was created to detect the coping mechanisms employed by mourners in order to endure the anguish of losing a loved one (Qasim et al., 2022). Qualitative Research: Since it provides a flexible way to evaluate data and offers a comprehensive and detailed analysis, thematic analysis is one of the most popular ways of analysis. To provide a systematic approach to attaining relevant conclusions, the theme analysis for this study followed the six steps of analysis outlined by Braun and Clarke (2006). Before the first author categorized replies into 21 themes, a team of four research assistants reviewed over the whole set of transcribed data. By comparing and contrasting the transcribed interviews, codes were developed, refined, or discarded. Five overarching themes were developed from these underlying elements (Sharif et al.,2021). When assessing the operationalization of a research study, whether it employs a qualitative or quantitative approach, several factors need to be considered. The term

"operationalization" refers to the process of defining and measuring variables in a study, ensuring that they are observable, measurable, and aligned with the research objectives. Here are the key factors to consider when evaluating the operationalization in both qualitative and quantitative approaches: Qualitative Approach: 1. Research Questions: Assess whether the research questions are clearly defined and aligned with the goals of the study. The operationalization should reflect the specific aspects or phenomena that the researcher aims to explore (Haucke et al., 2021). 2. Conceptual Clarity: Evaluate the clarity and coherence of the concepts or constructs being studied. Ensure that they are well-defined and adequately described to facilitate consistent interpretation across different contexts (Haucke et al., 2021). 3. Sampling Strategy: Examine the rationale behind the selection of participants or cases. Consider if the chosen sample size, sampling technique, and diversity of participants are appropriate for capturing a broad range of perspectives and experiences related to the research question (Andrade, 2021). 4. Data Collection Methods: Evaluate the appropriateness of the chosen data collection methods (e.g., interviews, observations, focus groups). Consider whether these methods effectively capture the richness and depth of the phenomena under investigation (Haucke et al., 2021). 5. Data Analysis Techniques: Assess the rigor and transparency of the data analysis process. Consider whether the chosen analytical techniques (e.g., thematic analysis, grounded theory) are appropriate for deriving meaningful insights from the qualitative data (Andrade, 2021).

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Quantitative Approach: 1. Variables and Measurement: Evaluate the clarity and operational definitions of variables. Check whether the researcher has clearly specified how each variable will be measured or observed. Consider the validity and reliability of the measurement instruments used (e.g., surveys, questionnaires, observation protocols) (Jespersen et al., 2019). 2. Sampling Design: Assess the appropriateness of the sampling design, including the target population, sampling frame, and sampling technique. Consider whether the sample size is adequate for drawing valid conclusions and generalizing the findings to the population of interest (Jespersen et al., 2019). 3. Data Collection Procedures: Examine the data collection procedures to ensure consistency and minimize biases. Consider whether data collection methods (e.g., surveys, experiments) are appropriate for the research objectives and whether steps were taken to minimize nonresponse and other sources of error (Lett et al., 2022). 4. Statistical Analysis: Evaluate the choice of statistical techniques employed in the analysis. Consider whether the chosen methods align with the research questions and data characteristics. Assess the robustness of the statistical tests used to support the study's conclusions (Jespersen et al., 2019). 5. Validity and Reliability: Consider the validity and reliability of the quantitative measures and methods used. Validity refers to the accuracy and relevance of the inferences made from the data, while reliability relates to the consistency and stability of the measurements (Lett et al., 2022). Overall, both qualitative and quantitative approaches require careful attention to the research questions, conceptual clarity, data collection methods, analysis techniques, and the validity and

reliability of the findings. A well-done operationalization in both approaches ensures that the research study effectively captures and measures the variables of interest, enabling meaningful analysis and valid conclusions. Part 2: Qualitative Problem Statement (operationalization and gaps): One study found that people in this demographic who have rapid weight loss are more prone to develop a negative body image (Sharif et al., 2021). This is due to a discrepancy between their physical size and their cognitive capacity regarding this shift. A gap in the research was revealed by a survey of the existing literature. To better understand how body image evolves over time, Sharif et al., (2021) advocated for studies to be conducted on "follow-up assessments done several years after surgery, especially during the period of slowed post-surgical weight loss." Quantitative Problem Statement (operationalization and gaps): Students studying mental health at the graduate level report higher levels of stress compared to their academically focused peers. Qasim et al., (2022) found that student stress negatively impacts emotional well-being, physical health, and decision-making. The current research aimed to address a knowledge gap on the topic of posttraumatic development and sorrow following the loss of a parent in adulthood. Most studies examine how the loss of a parent affects kids or teens, but the people left behind are often overlooked.

References Andrade C. (2021). A student's guide to the classification and operationalization of variables in the conceptualization and design of a clinical study: Part 2. Indian journal of psychological medicine, 43 (3), 265–268. https://doi.org/10.1177/0253717621996151 Haucke, M., Hoekstra, R., & van Ravenzwaaij, D. (2021). When numbers fail: do researchers agree on operationalization of published research? Royal Society open science, 8 (9), 191354. https://doi.org/10.1098/rsos.191354 Jespersen, L.N., Michelsen, S.I., Holstein, B.E. et al. (2019). Conceptualization, operationalization, and content validity of the EQOL-questionnaire measuring quality of life and participation for persons with disabilities. Health Qual Life Outcomes 16 , 199. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12955-018-1024-6 Lett, E., Asabor, E., Beltrán, S., Cannon, A. M., & Arah, O. A. (2022). Conceptualizing, contextualizing, and operationalizing race in quantitative health sciences research. The Annals of Family Medicine, 20 (2), 157-163. Qasim, K., & Carson, J. (2022). Does post-traumatic growth follow parental death in adulthood? An empirical investigation. Omega: Journal of Death & Dying, 86 (1), 25– 44. https://doi.org/10.1177/0030222820961956 Sharif, N., Karasavva, V., Thai, H., & Farrell, S. (2021). “We’re working in a trauma avoidant culture”: A qualitative study exploring assertive community treatment providers’ perspectives on working with trauma and PTSD in people with severe mental illness. Community Mental Health Journal, 57 (8), 1478–1488. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-020-00764-8

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