Volume 11, Issue 4 (3-2026)
فصلنامه تحقیقات بنیادین علوم انسانی 2026, 11(4): 110-110 |
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Shojaei M S. Conceptual Modeling in Behavioral Science Research:
A Critical Analysis of the Literature and Theoretical Formulation. فصلنامه تحقیقات بنیادین علوم انسانی 2026; 11 (4) :110-110
URL: http://frh.sccsr.ac.ir/article-1-702-en.html
URL: http://frh.sccsr.ac.ir/article-1-702-en.html
Abstract: (5 Views)
The conceptual model is one of the widely used concepts in behavioral science research; however, methodological ambiguity remains regarding its definition, status, and relationship to concepts such as theory, theoretical framework, construct, and variable. The present study aimed to critically analyze the literature, elucidate the position of the conceptual model within the research process, and provide a coherent theoretical formulation of the concept. This qualitative study employed a documentary analysis approach, drawing on sources in the philosophy of science, research methodology, behavioral sciences, information systems, and scientific modeling, which were analyzed comparatively and conceptually. The findings indicated that a conceptual model is not merely a diagram depicting relationships among variables, nor is it synonymous with a theoretical framework. Rather, it is an abstract, systematic, and purposeful representation of a phenomenon that facilitates its understanding, description, explanation, and analysis through the organization of concepts, constructs, and theoretical relationships. Furthermore, in the behavioral sciences, conceptual models constitute a family of theoretical representations with diverse forms and occupy an intermediate position between theoretical foundations and empirical research. The study culminated in an integrated and principled definition of the conceptual model, along with criteria for its development and evaluation, with applicability to empirical, theoretical, documentary, and Islamic studies.
Keywords: Conceptual Model, Conceptual Analysis, Theoretical Framework, Theory, Research Methodology, Behavioral Sciences.
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