Question
What is the purpose of operational definitions in social research?
To provide a theoretical framework for the study
To establish the reliability and validity of measures
To summarize the findings of previous research studies
To guide the formulation of research questions and hypotheses
To provide a theoretical framework for the study
To establish the reliability and validity of measures
To summarize the findings of previous research studies
To guide the formulation of research questions and hypotheses
Answers
GPT-4o mini
The purpose of operational definitions in social research is primarily **to establish the reliability and validity of measures**. Operational definitions specify how variables are measured or manipulated in a study, ensuring that the concepts being studied are clear and measurable. This clarity allows researchers to assess the consistency of their measurements (reliability) and ensures that the measures accurately capture the intended construct (validity).
While operational definitions can also aid in guiding research questions and hypotheses by clarifying what is being studied, their primary role is in the context of measurement reliability and validity.
While operational definitions can also aid in guiding research questions and hypotheses by clarifying what is being studied, their primary role is in the context of measurement reliability and validity.