The Research Process

Hypothesis

Data

Empirical Generalizations

Theory

Theory

A logically interrelated set of propositions about empirical reality.

Theory shapes research and research shapes theory.

Analytical Framework/Guide to Research

Deterrence Theory

Prevalent in Criminological Research Evaluates the impact of punishment

on crime. Expects punishment to deter crime

in two ways: Specific vs. General Deterrence

Research Topic/Question

Domestic Violence is a prevalent social problem in the Belizean society; it is a problem that has tragically escalated over the years, thus the issue demands much attention and societal redress.

To what extent does arresting spouse abusers reduces their likelihood of re-offending?

Hypothesis

A tentative statement about empirical reality, involving a relationship between two or more variables.

Consists of an independent variable(s) and dependent variable(s).

Arresting an abusive spouse after a domestic dispute decreases the likelihood of he/she re-offending.

Conceptualization/Operationalization

Outline and Define Variables Indicate measurement of those

variables. Domestic Abuse: Definition Operationalize: Crime Statistics Social Research

Literature Review

Find out everything you can about your topic/hypothesis.

Read and analyze other research projects: library, journals, web documents etc.

On going process: From beginning to end.

Methodology

Developing the research design. Quantitative, Qualitative or

Triangulation How am I going to gather data to

test my hypothesis? What tools/data collection

instruments will I use to gather my data?

Methodologies

Quantitative Surveys Experiments

Qualitative Interviews Focus Groups Participant

Observation

Sampling

Several types of sampling techniques.

Target population Generate sample or subset Generalizability and Sampling go

hand in hand. Representative sampling

Data Collection

The fun part!!! Going out into the field and

gathering the data. Many obstacles and hindrances may

come about. Strategizing and contingency

planning is necessary.

Data Analysis

Putting things into perspective Turning raw data into information Quantitative and Qualitative

Analysis Do my data support/dismiss by

tentative statement about observable reality (hypothesis)?

Presenting the Data

Written Presentation:Charts; Graphs; Tables

Oral Presentation: Audio and Visual Aids; Power point

etc.

Conclusions

1. Provide a clear synopsis of your findings.

2. Summarize the research experience

3. Present ideas for future research4. Make formal recommendations

based on your findings

References

Giving credit where it is due. Proper citations throughout the

research project is imperative. Social Sciences: APA

Appendix

Supplemental Data and Information to enhance your research

Copy of questionnaire instrument Local conference reports Statistical data International or Regional Trends

Publication

Scholarly Journals Social Science Research Journals:

Criminology; Criminology and Public Policy; Criminology and Criminal Justice

Organization of Interests School Purposes

Back to Theory:

The research cycle starts again. Developing new theory or building

upon old theory. Deterrence Theory: Arresting abusive spouse works to

deter re-offending only in high status/economic class communities.