In this assignment, students evaluate how a psychological lifespan theory has been studied using qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Students will analyze current empirical peer-reviewed studies to evaluate how methodology influences understanding and application of the theory.
Select a psychological lifespan theory such as attachment theory, social cognitive theory, psychosocial theory, etc.
Identify 4 empirical peer-reviewed studies (2 qualitative and 2 quantitative) that explicitly apply or examine the psychological lifespan theory. The empirical peer-reviewed studies should be within the last 10 years.
For each study, summarize the following: Research question or problem; Methodology (i.e. sample, data collection, and analysis); Key findings as related to theory; and Strengths and limitations of the methodological approach in examining the selected lifespan theory
After reviewing the 4 studies, write a comparative analysis that addresses:
What each method reveals about the theory that the other does not
How each approach supports, challenges, or expands the theoretical framework
Which theoretical constructs are more easily accessed by each method
Whether integrating both methods could provide a more complete picture
Identify and analyze researcher bias in qualitative and quantitative studies and evaluate ways to mitigate researcher bias
Conclude with a brief reflection on what student learned between theory and method, as well as which approach was more compelling or useful for studying this theory — and why