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Using Theories and Models for Your Research

Faculties: SW

Refer to existing theories or models. The focus is on the critical reflection of the theories used in relation to your research question – and not on a description of the theories or models without placing them in the context of your paper.

Info: Here you will find an overview of the overall structure of a Social Science paper.

In the social sciences, there are many theories and models about the same subject, some of which contradict each other. Make such controversies visible and engage with the different positions. As part of your academic work, it is necessary to consider the various alternatives and to take minority positions seriously as well.

A critical comparison of different theories is the basis for developing your own position.

Do I need theories for my thesis?

“Yes! A theory is like a pair of glasses through which I look at reality. It helps me see the outlines of a phenomenon more clearly and define it. This means a theory offers a comprehensive, well-founded description and explanation of (parts of) reality. Referring to theories in an academic paper makes it clear through which lens – in other words, from which perspective – I view things. To forego theory would mean remaining in the ‘naive’ position of everyday theories.”

– Wolfgang Wahl

Theoretical considerations often occur in connection with conceptual clarifications but can also be linked to the description of the research method used.

Quite often, empirical research projects contribute to generating hypotheses and thus to theory development.
Using different theories and models is an optional part of the structure of an academic paper.

Frequently asked questions

What should I keep in mind when including theories and models from other researchers in my paper?

Engage carefully with the original literature so that you truly understand the theories or models. Also, consult sources that critically discuss the theory or model themselves.

What should I keep in mind when developing my own theory?

Developing a theory is a demanding academic achievement, which is usually expected only at the master’s or doctoral level. It is important to conduct a thorough literature review beforehand to ensure that you are actually developing something new. Otherwise, your own theories should be based on solid arguments or empirical research – not on gut feeling.

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State of Research

Info: Here you will find an overview of the overall structure of a Social Science paper. Place your topic in the Social Science context by presenting findings from research. You can describe related studies that answer the given question in a different way or address similar questions in a similar manner. If you intend to …

Faculties: SW

Contributors: Carola Gröhlich, Susanne Heidenreich, Maria Noll, Erika von Rautenfeld, Schreibzentrum, Dzifa Vode, Wolfgang Wahl

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Describing the Research Method

Info: Here you will find an overview of the overall structure of a Social Science paper. What belongs in the methodology chapter? For empirical studies, you present the methods of data collection resp. data generation and the methods of analysis and interpretation in a separate chapter of your academic paper, and provide justification for these. …

Faculties: BW, SW

Contributors: Carola Gröhlich, Susanne Heidenreich, Maria Noll, Erika von Rautenfeld, Schreibzentrum, Dzifa Vode, Wolfgang Wahl

This article was published in August 2025 and last updated in April 2025.

Faculties: SW

Contributors: Carola Gröhlich, Susanne Heidenreich, Maria Noll, Erika von Rautenfeld, Schreibzentrum, Dzifa Vode, Wolfgang Wahl

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