Epistemological paradigms and theories are essential aspects of social work practice and research. An epistemological paradigm consists of three components that include ontological, epistemological, and axiological. In contrast, theories are described as organized concepts and propositions researchers formulate to explain phenomena and processes (Robbins et al., 2019). The difference between an epistemological paradigm and a theory is that an epistemological paradigm deals with overarching philosophical assumptions. Therefore, the researchers’ study aligned with critical race theory because it helped to examine how social media usage affected child adoption processes.
The role of an epistemological paradigm in research design and topic selection is instrumental in structuring the ontological assumptions and theory’s practical application. If scholars need more framework, they need help understanding the study problems, which suggests the epistemological concept is essential. For instance, in Dr. Phillip Hong’s research interview, the ontological assumptions were those of social workers’ support for caregivers (Walden University, 2020). It led to the selection of behaviorism theory due to its focus on intensive behavior management. According to Lor, Backonja & Lauver (2017), exploring all viable approaches to understanding the phenomenon under study is essential.
The use of epistemology as part of thesis studies is evident from the research discussions of the same faculty member. In the second case explaining suicide in the Asian American community, Dr. Hong describes how the research design received support from a theory, Borland’s protection theory (Walden University, 2020). The theory explains well the microtheory aspect of studying an individual population but in the context used in this theory. The study was targeting individuals with Asian American backgrounds only. Hence, the microtheory information required motivation and inclusion in protective factors, factors that prevent or reduce suicide in these individuals. Theory selection in social work research is essential due to its theoretical, practical, and educational considerations (Lor, Backonja & Lauver, 2017).
A theory has an essential role in the study conducted by Dr.Rice on values tests and social values inventories to assess the objectives of logic positivism (Walden University, 2018). The micro-level perspective differs from the Meso perspective, as it is limited to a specific population in a particular place within a given social work setting. At the same time, the Meso level applies the theory beyond limits. The study used the Empowerment theory (Walden University, 2019). The idea played a significant role in examining microscale behavior, evaluating the quality of services provided to individuals, and analyzing population analysis from the perspective of social work practice.
Response to my Colleagues
First Colleague
In response to my colleague’s post, peer-reviewed research has been informative in how theory informs methodology. I agree that Borland’s protection theory was used in the Asian American community micro perspective. However, the limitation of research affects the utilization of theory in disseminating results in empirical and theoretical studies. There will remain challenges that affect the understanding and utilization of theory in research. The primary challenge may be the theory groupings for systemic perspectives like systems theory. A methodological or systemic theory may include micro, meso, and macro aspects.
Second Colleague
Great post, colleague! I agree with your comparison between epistemological paradigms and theories and their role in social work practice and research. In general, peer-reviewed research follows the explanation provided by my colleague in terms of how theory informs methodology. Most journal articles I have read state the theory or theories being used as a framework, and then the process is described in alignment with those theories.
However, one challenge I have faced is understanding complex theories and how they are applied in research. It sometimes takes multiple readings and deeper exploration to fully comprehend the use of view in a study. I recommend that researchers provide a clear and concise explanation of the ideas being used and how they are being applied in their study to help readers better understand and utilize theory in their research.
References
Lor, M., Backonja, U., & Lauver, D. R. (2017). How could nurse researchers apply theory to generate knowledge more efficiently? Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 49(5), 580–589. https://doi.org/10.1111/jnu.12316
Robbins, S. P., Chatterjee, P., Canda, E. R., & Leibowitz, G. S. (2019). Contemporary human behavior theory: A critical perspective for social work (4th Ed.). Pearson.
Walden University. (2018). Research foundations to dissertation: Dr. Debora Rice [Video]. Walden University Canvas. https://waldenu.instructure.com
Walden University. (2020). Research foundations to dissertation: Dr. Phillip Hong [Video]. Walden University Canvas. https://waldenu.instructure.com
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