Theoretical Perspectives What do we do now?

Overview of Theoretical Perspectives  Functionalism  Systems Theory  Social Exchange Theory  Symbolic Interactionism  Conflict Theory  Feminist Theory  Ecological Systems Theory  Life course approach

Applications for research  Theoretical frameworks help “frame” the research question  Research topics need to be focused, objective and realistic in order to yield effective results  Theoretical frameworks are built on certain biases and assumptions. Recognizing these assumptions before starting research may help minimize or at least acknowledge their affect on any given study

Narrowing research focus  Consider the following research topic: Studying the impact of divorce on child development  Is this an achievable research goal as stated here?

Research needs to be specific and achievable  Use any of the theoretical perspectives to frame a research question on the topic of divorce and its effects on child development.  Functionalism – how does the role of father change after divorce and how does that impact child development?  Symbolic interaction theory – What are the mental health trajectories for children of divorced parents?