Concepts, Constructs, Variables and Theory:

A Clarification

Concepts

• Building blocks of theory

• Abstract

• Represent broad, general idea

• Not directly observable

Theory

• Systematic; abstract explanation of some aspect of reality

• Primary goal is to provide a framework that links research and practice and contributes to making findings a meaningful and generalizable

Function Theory Provides

• Structure for interpretation of findings

• Means for summarizing and explaining observations for an isolated study

• Source to generate hypothesis

• Framework for guiding research

• Guide for selecting appropriate method

• Basis to describe, explain or predict factors influencing nursing outcomes

Constructs

• Concepts specified in such away they are observable in the real world

• Invented

Variables

• Concepts that are observable and measurable

• Have a dimension that can vary

• Narrow in meaning