How to construct a theory?

Steps:1. Postulates are asserted

2. Observations on human behaviors are made

3. Theory is constructed (assumption may be included

4. Hypothesis is derived (If A, then B)

5. Hypothesis is tested against evidence

6. Theory is either confirmed or refuted

7. Repeat steps 4, 5, 6

8. After continual testing, if the theory is confirmed, then it is accepted tentatively

Is attractiveness important to females?

Which one is more charming?

In order to provide an answer, a theory is used to explain and predict

human behaviors.

Step 1Postulates are asserted:

Physical attractiveness is important to females

Step 2Observation:

Many females are on diet

Assumption:

Genetic factor will not determine the body shape

Step 3Theory:

Behaviors are explained and predicted as follows:

The greater the need to enhance physical attractiveness, the greater the tendency will be for a female to lose weight

Step 4Hypothesis:

Hypothesis is derived:

If a female considers herself more unattractive, then she will perform a greater number of dieting behaviors.

Step 5collect evidence through a survey

Question 1:

How would you rank your appearance?

A. ugly B. medium C. above average D. beautiful

Question 2:

Check against a list of behaviorsvomit after each mealtake medication to control appetiteskip lunchcalculate body weight before and after each mealcalculate calories of food before eatingothers: ?

Result:

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

ugly mediocre above average beautiful

physical appearance

no

.

ugly

mediocre

above average

beautiful

Step 6: Theory is confirmed

Step 7:Hypothesis:

Second hypothesis is derived:

If a female has been married for a longer period of time, then she is less likely to be on diet.

Result (Empirical evidence collected through survey):

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 2 3 4 5

no. of years after marriage

no. o

f d

ietin

g b

eha

vio

ur

1

2

3

4

5

Step 8:

The process of hypothesis testing will continue. When the theory is confirmed, then it will be accepted tentatively.

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