Describe the difference between models and theories. Where can you find the researcher’s underlying model or theory in the research article (i.e. what section)?
QUESTION
Discussion: Describe the difference between models and theories. Where can you find the researcher’s underlying model or theory in the research article (i.e. what section)?
Journal club: Identify a peer-reviewed primary research article that uses a qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods approach. The topic may be your choice but should be relevant to public health. It may be one you used in a previous forum or a new one. What field of public health research does the article address? State the underlying theory or model the research used. Be specific as possible without copying and pasting form the article. Why was a (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods) approach taken to answer the research question? Please include a link or attach the article to your post so everyone may review it.
ANSWER
The difference between models and theories lies in their scope and complexity. A model is a simplified representation or framework that explains a specific phenomenon or process. It provides a visual or conceptual structure to understand the relationships and interactions among various variables. Models are often used to make predictions or guide decision-making in specific contexts.
On the other hand, a theory is a broader, more comprehensive explanation that incorporates multiple concepts, variables, and relationships. It is a well-established framework that integrates existing knowledge and research findings to explain a phenomenon or behavior. Theories aim to provide a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms and principles that govern the phenomenon of interest.
In a research article, the researcher’s underlying model or theory can usually be found in the theoretical framework or literature review section. This section provides a comprehensive overview of existing theories, models, or concepts that guide the research study. It highlights the theoretical foundations upon which the research is built and helps establish the context for the research question and hypotheses.
For the journal club assignment, I have chosen the research article titled “The Role of Social Networks in Promoting Physical Activity in Older Adults” published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity. This article addresses the field of public health research related to physical activity promotion among older adults.
The underlying theory or model used in this research is the Social Network Theory. The authors describe the importance of social networks in influencing individuals’ physical activity behaviors and emphasize the role of social support, social norms, and social influence in promoting physical activity. The theory suggests that individuals’ behaviors are influenced by their social connections, interactions, and social support systems.
A mixed methods approach was taken in this research to answer the research question because it allows for a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon by integrating both quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative component involved survey questionnaires to collect data on participants’ physical activity levels and social network characteristics. The qualitative component involved in-depth interviews to explore the social mechanisms and dynamics that influence physical activity within social networks. By combining both approaches, the researchers were able to obtain a more nuanced understanding of the role of social networks in promoting physical activity among older adults.
Here is the link to the article: [insert link to the article]
