Constructing a Research Model: Integrating Variables for a Conceptual Framework

Forming a Research Model

A research model often manifests as a network of variables. It often includes one or more mediators, one or more moderators, one or more DVs, and one or more IVs, all of whom contribute to a thorough portrayal of the relationships under inquiry. This model provides a visual depiction of how these factors interact, acting as the framework for your study.

Identifying Your Variable of Interest

Finding your variable of interest, which frequently results from gaps in the body of current literature, is an essential stage in developing a research model. Consider the possibility that you are interested in servant leadership. You could find that there isn’t much study on how servant leadership affects life satisfaction after reading the literature. This knowledge gap offers a possibility for unique study—a chance to contribute by looking at new connections.

Expanding Your Model

While your variable of interest (like servant leadership) serves as a DV, you might want to add more factors to your research to make it more interesting. These may consist of additional IVs, DVs, and mediators. These auxiliary elements provide your research depth. To illustrate how servant leadership affects life fulfillment, you may use career satisfaction, employee engagement, and advancement opportunities as examples of mediators. You develop a more complex knowledge of the underlying causal processes by doing this.

Incorporating Moderators

In addition to mediators, moderators are crucial in defining the interactions in your model. They provide insight into what supports or undermines particular relationships. For instance, work-life balance might act as a moderator in the discussion of servant leadership and life fulfillment. When enhanced, the link between servant leadership and life satisfaction may be strengthened; conversely, when absent, it may be hampered.

Preparing for the Next Step: Searching for New Variables

After understanding the foundations of creating a research model, the following step comprises looking for additional variables to include. Finding new linkages and using them in your model throughout this phase can enhance your research landscape. It’s crucial to remember that, despite the possibility that this strategy deviates from that recommended in academic literature, it is a pragmatic strategy that emphasizes the importance of original research. However, it is crucial to supplement this strategy with in-depth study of books and academic papers.