Are the Middle-Range Theory Propositions Reasonable?
The criterion of internal consistency also requires the propositions of the theory to be reasonable. This requirement is called structural consistency (Chinn & Kramer, 2004;
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Fawcett, 1999). Propositions are reasonable when they follow the rules of inductive or deduc- tive reasoning. Reasoning is defined as “the processing and organizing of ideas in order to reach conclusions” (Burns & Grove, 2007, p. 16).
Inductive Reasoning
Inductive reasoning encompasses a set of particular observations and a general conclu- sion. This type of reasoning is “a process of starting with details of experience and moving to a general picture. Inductive reasoning involves the observation of a particular set of instances that belong to and can be identified as part of a larger set” (Liehr & Smith, 2006, p. 114). Inductive reasoning is most often found in reports of theory-generating research. Observations typically are quotations from study participants or are made by the researcher; the conclusion usually is referred to as a category or theme. The general form of inductive reasoning and an example from a fictitious study are given in Box 6–7.