Evaluating a Theory

Is the theory… Definable Testable Applicable Generating Hypotheses Supported by empirical research

Definable? A good theory has well defined key concepts that is, variables are clearly operationalized. EXAMPLE: If a theory states that a child "needs love to develop correctly," this is a very weak theory. What is love? What is "correct development?" The actual concept of schema - that is, these mental representations that organize behavior - are problematic in this sense.

Can it be tested? Is the theory falsifiable? In other words, can it be tested in a lab and then either supported or refuted? Remember that a lot of Freud's early theories - like the Oedipal Conflict - could not be tested and thus were rather weak theories.

Applicable? Heuristic Validity Does the theory have a lot of different applications? Or is it very limited in its applicability (also called its heuristic validity). If a theory cannot be applied to many different behaviors, it may still be important - for example, a theory that explains the origin of bipolar disorder -but many theories may be applied to explain a large range of behaviors. Think, for example, about Social Identity Theory. Schema theory has high heuristic validity.

Generate hypotheses? Generativity A good theory should generate hypotheses What is called "generativity." This is another aspect of heuristic validity.

Finally, a good theory has empirical support. Not only can the theory be tested in a lab (and thus falsifiable), but these tests yield results that support the theory. It is also important that this empirical research has been replicated so that reliability is established. One study that supports the theory is simply not enough....

Is the theory… Definable Testable Applicable Generating Hypotheses Supported by empirical research

Definable Testable Applicable Generating Hypotheses Supported by empirical research