Variables, Conceptualization

Conceptualization is a process of defining meaning of the terms used in a study (e.g., definition using concepts and words) based on previous scholarship. Utilizing prior research provides a basis for creating agreement upon variable conceptualization within the field. However, when reviewing a scholarly article, it is common (and important) for researchers to critically question how something is conceptualized and how it is operationalized. This entry focuses on conceptualization in the variable construction process:

Conceptualization → Definition → Operationalization → Measurement

Researchers use various terminologies throughout the conceptual, theoretical, and empirical stages of research. Occasionally, these terminologies are utilized interchangeably; however, there are distinctions. Variables have conceptual definitions. These definitions include elements of interest to researchers. Elements are specifically identi-fied in the hypotheses and research questions. Hypotheses are predictive statements about the relationship between the variables, and research questions are statements about the relationship between the variables without specific predictions (rather more exploratory and descriptive in nature). These elements must be able to be expressed as more than one value or category. For instance, in a study examining paternal behaviors of both mothers and fathers, the researcher would have two variable elements. However, exclusively examining mothers does not allow the parental sex to vary and, therefore, it is a constant. If a variable has only one characteristic or a fixed value that does not change, it is referred to as a constant.

This entry discusses the differences between conceptualization and concepts. It explains the derivation of concepts in a discussion of both direct and indirect observations. In addition, concepts and constructs are used synonymously, and this entry dispels the differences and similarities between those terms. Next, this entry further narrows variable conceptualization through a discussion of indicators, dimensions, and examples. Finally, this entry closes with a discussion of the distinction that occurs for inductive and deductive approaches.