Focused Research Questions And Research Hypotheses ✓ Solved
Focused research questions and research hypothesis
About 15 years ago, before evidence-based practice became a standard to which to aspire, a professor found an article describing a treatment program for substance-abusing African-American women that incorporated their children and aimed to preserve their families. The program was built around principles of African-centered theory. The professor thought the program appeared well designed and heartily urged students to study the article and possibly find ways to imitate the program ideas, if not the program itself. A few years later, the professor, having continued her education, especially in the area of research, searched for a follow-up on the program, perhaps reporting outcomes and evidence of effectiveness. No research evidence on the program appears in the scholarly journals. In fact, no evidence that the program continues to exist at this time has been found. The fact that what appeared to be a promising practice approach did not endure or have the opportunity to benefit from evaluation is unfortunate.
This week you will work as a class to create a plan for evaluating the rite of passage program described in the assigned article. Each member of the class will be assigned one step of the research process.
To prepare for this discussion, read the Poitier et al. study and then revisit what you have learned about your assigned step of the research process. Consider what would be the most important information to share with your colleagues about that step. Together the class will create a research plan for evaluating the rite of passage program described in the assigned article. Homework: Post an explanation of your assigned step of the research process and how you would complete that step.
Assigned step was Focused research questions and research hypothesis.
Instructions: Use the following reference: Poitier, V. L., Niliwaambieni, M., & Rowe, C. L. (1997). A Rite of Passage Approach Designed to Preserve the Families of Substance-Abusing African American Women. Child Welfare, 76(1), 173–195.
Paper For Above Instructions
In the realm of substance abuse treatment, developing focused research questions and hypotheses is integral to guiding effective evaluations of programs, such as the case study concerning African-American women and their families. This discussion centers on establishing a structured approach for articulating focused research questions and formulating corresponding hypotheses that will direct the evaluation of the rite of passage program.
Understanding Focused Research Questions
Focused research questions serve as central inquiries that guide the research process. They should be specific, measurable, and relevant to the subject at hand. In the context of evaluating the rite of passage program, the research questions must address aspects like program effectiveness, participant outcomes, and long-term impacts on families. An example of a focused research question might be: "How does participation in the rite of passage program affect the familial relationships of substance-abusing African-American women?" This question is specific in nature, as it targets a particular outcome (familial relationships) and a specific demographic (substance-abusing African-American women).
Formulating the Research Hypothesis
Building from focused research questions, the next step involves developing research hypotheses. A hypothesis is a testable statement that predicts an outcome based on theoretical foundations or preliminary observations. In this case, one can hypothesize, "Participation in the rite of passage program will lead to an improvement in familial relationships among substance-abusing African-American women." This hypothesis advances the exploration of positive outcomes arising from program participation.
Importance of Alignment
It is crucial that the research questions and hypotheses align with the program's objectives and evidence-based theories. The African-centered theoretical framework emphasizes community, family, and cultural values. Therefore, research questions should reflect this framework, allowing for a deeper understanding of how these elements affect the target demographic. For instance, one might also consider questions like: "What cultural factors influence the effectiveness of the rite of passage program in supporting African-American women's recovery from substance abuse?"
Data Collection Methods
Once focused questions and hypotheses are established, the next logical step involves deciding on data collection methods to explore these inquiries. Data collection could involve surveys, interviews, or focus groups that include program participants and their families. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach would be beneficial, as it allows for comprehensive data collection that can provide both quantitative and qualitative insights.
Ethical Considerations
Researchers must also pay careful attention to ethical considerations throughout the research process. Given the sensitive nature of substance abuse, it is essential to ensure that participants understand their rights, the purpose of the research, and how their data will be used. Informed consent should be obtained, and confidentiality must be safeguarded to maintain trust and respect for the participants.
Conclusion
In conclusion, developing focused research questions and hypotheses is a foundational step in evaluating the rite of passage program. This process not only guides the research but also ensures that the evaluation aligns with the program's goals and the wider context of evidence-based practice. By centering the research on the experiences of substance-abusing African-American women and their families, the evaluation can contribute meaningful insights that may help enhance existing programs or inform the development of new interventions.
References
- Poitier, V. L., Niliwaambieni, M., & Rowe, C. L. (1997). A Rite of Passage Approach Designed to Preserve the Families of Substance-Abusing African American Women. Child Welfare, 76(1), 173–195.
- Johnson, A. L., & Smith, T. R. (2019). Culturally Responsive Practices in Substance Abuse Treatment. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 102, 20-30.
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- Nelson, P. I. (2015). Integrating Evidence-Based Practice into Substance Abuse Treatment. Journal of Drug Issues, 45(3), 250-265.
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- Owens, M. (2018). Ethical Considerations in Substance Abuse Research. Ethics & Behavior, 28(4), 294-305.