RSCH FPX 7868 Assessment 2 Research Theory for Qualitative Studies RSCH-FPX 7868 Qualitative Design and Analysis

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Research Theory

This assessment will examine research theory to support the proposed study on equal pay for men and women performing similar duties and the impact of pay disparities in the workplace. It will outline intended outcomes that could have practical implications for the stakeholders involved in this study. This assessment will discuss how the qualitative research study will contribute to the existing knowledge on equal pay for men and women with similar responsibilities and the effects of disparities in the workplace. Additionally, it will analyze the theoretical implications to better understand the phenomena and describe the practical implications of this research.

Key Elements of the Theory

Abend (2008) suggests that theories are developed to explain, predict, and understand phenomena. Heath (2020) identifies four key components of a theory: concepts, constructs, propositions, and models. The essential components related to equal pay for men and women with similar duties in the workplace include:

Concepts

Akerlof and Yellen (1990) argue that pay disparities in the workplace can lead to negative reactions from employees who perceive their wages as uncompetitive compared to their counterparts of the opposite gender. Rouen (2020) provides evidence of a negative correlation between unexplained pay disparities and future firm performance.

Constructs

The constructs related to equal pay for men and women with similar duties and the effects of disparities in the workplace will focus on the following:

• Perceived Severity: This refers to the negative consequences that an employee associates with an event or outcome. This construct emphasizes the seriousness of pay disparities and their repercussions.

• Perceived Barriers: These are related to objective measurements of obstacles. This construct highlights the potential negative aspects of pay disparities in the workplace.

• Cues to Action: These are triggers in the decision-making process. This construct focuses on the factors that prompt action.

Propositions

Boyle (2017) defines propositions in qualitative research as statements regarding the likelihood of two or more concepts interacting. There is a strong likelihood that the constructs of perceived severity, perceived barriers, and cues to action will work together. A proposition is less precise than a hypothesis.

Models

Hasa (2016) explains that scientific models are often employed to describe real-world phenomena through comparison. Hypotheses and theories are fundamental components of models. Sargent (2015) categorizes the four basic types of models as iconic, graphical, analog, and mathematical.

How Theory Supports the Proposed Research

Stakeholders in a qualitative research study on equal pay for men and women with similar duties and the effects of workplace disparities would include research participants, organizations aiming to address pay disparities, and others who may be affected by the study’s outcomes.

Practical Implications

Oni (2018) discusses practical implications, emphasizing the importance of being realistic in describing what the study results may indicate. It is crucial not to exaggerate the implications of the research findings. The practical implications of the study should include recommendations for future research within the implications section.

Illustrative Examples

Emery (2014) suggests that illustrative examples in research studies can include word clouds, which showcase open-ended survey data alongside closed data, photos alongside participant responses, icons next to descriptions and answers, diagrams to clarify concepts and processes, and graphic timelines. Charts depicting gender and wage gaps serve as examples of such illustrations.

Example of a Word Cloud Illustration

Potential Implications of the Research Outcomes

The potential implications of this qualitative research outcome would enhance the understanding of pay and gender equity. Organizations could utilize this research to assess whether they have gender pay disparities, which may affect gender pay equality.

Potential Implications for Organizations

Buttner and Lowe (2017) suggest that future cross-cultural and intra-cultural studies should continue to investigate the differential impact of internal and external pay equity. In addition to highlighting the importance of gender pay eq