Definition and Nature of Theory - Thesis Example

Thus, theories are an expression of specifically defined domains that offer explanations of how and why causal links are formed “so that the theory gives specific predictions” (Wacker, 1998, p. 364). More particularly, the theory is a “limited and fairly precise picture” (Wacker, 1998, p. 364). The limited and precise picture informed by theory is based on how terms, domains, links/relationships, and predictions/assumptions are defined (Wacker, 1998, p. 364). In this regard, theories by definition are operational.

As Wacker (1998) explains, a theory answers the questions of “how, when (or where), and why” which is distinguished from descriptive objectives which merely answers the questions of “what (or who)” (Wacker, 1998, p. 364). Gelso (2006) offers a more condensed definition of theory and in doing so defines theory as “a statement of the suspected relationship between and among variables” (p. 458). From this perspective, theories are expected to be present in just about all aspects of research.

In other words, in all research, it should be anticipated that variables should be linked in one form or another. However, Gelso (2006) cautions that theories can be either informal or formal. Informal theories do not contain explicit statements and lack objectives for formulating a “logically consistent and mutually interdependent body of knowledge” (Gelso, 2006, p. 458). According to Gelso (2006), a theory will have scientific value if it is able to reveal why it is anticipated that variables will be related or will have an impact on each other.

There must also be logical rationales for anticipating the link between and impact of variables (Gelso, 2006). In this regard, theory functions in four main ways: descriptive, delimiting, generative and integrative (Gelso, 2006).