Using the criteria presented in Discussion 2 (attached), critique the theory of Self-Efficacy using the internal and external criticism evaluation process.
Please include 400 words in your initial post with two scholarly articles
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The evaluation of middle range theories, an essential concept in the sphere of study is not a simple task as it requires both internal and external critique. Intermediate theories lie between the limited and necessary working hypotheses that shape research in everyday practice, which is essential because they serve as a foundation for empirical validation and practical implementation.
Internal validity or internal critique considers the theory’s logical consistency and whether it is a realistic framework. First, the process begins by assessing the clarity of concepts and propositions in theory. Such a middle range theory presupposes clear, unique concepts that are constantly and reliably used. The relationships between these concepts must be logical and based on a reliable reason (Butts, J. B., and Rich, K. L. 2021). This approach includes evaluating the consistency of a theory about its inner logical construction and compatibility with received knowledge. The theory should be based on internal consistency as well as consistent with knowledge about the field. In addition, the internal criticism critically examines concept construction and operationalization processes ensuring quantifiability and verifiability of their manifestation in empirical research settings. This step is important in testing the hypothesis empirically.
On one side, the external criticism that is concerned with outward validity of theory focuses on its applicability and transfer rights outside developmental settings. This entails evaluating the practical importance and usefulness of a theory in everyday life. The first part of the external appraisal addresses empirical validation through observation. This process tests the applicability of the concept to distinct situations or settings. The assessment incorporates the analysis of empirical approaches to prove a hypothesis, issues with data quality and their credibility, as well as statistical tools adequacy. External criticism also reflects the impact of such a theory on current knowledge about corpus. This analysis elaborates the breadth of how far which theory widens, advances or challenges existing facts and ability to provide base for stimulating other research prospects.
It also the foreign critique view measures functional effectiveness of theory (McEwan, M., and Wills, E. M. 2021). This entails assessing whether the theory can be applied to shape practice or policy in this field. Accepting any hypothesis implies a high degree of aptness and practical utility.
Briefly, middle range theories should be evaluated through both internal and external criticism in research. Internal criticisms are logical representation and applicability, but external criticism is about relevancy establishment to multiple occasions or usefulness in practice. As a whole though, these forms of critique allow determining the effectiveness and validity as well applicability within research middle-range theories.
References
Butts, J. B., & Rich, K. L. (2021). Philosophies and theories for advanced nursing practice. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
McEwan, M., & Wills, E. M. (2021). Theoretical basis for nursing. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
