Operationalization - Defining concepts

3 important questions on Operationalization - Defining concepts

What are the 5 main 'rules' for defining concepts?

1. The definies must not include the definiendum or a synoniem.
2. Definition should be clear. If necessary give a seperated definition of an abstract concept in the definies (this is called nested definition).
3. Avoid circular regulation.
4. Avoid a list
5. Make the definition as concise as possible.

6. Strive for simple and clear words
7. Exhaustive and exclusive
8. Don't define by saying what the defiendum is not

What's the difference between exhaustive and percise?

When we talk about definitions it must be exhaustive. When we talk about questions it must be percise.

Exhaustive contains that all categories are involved / included. E.g. Q20 chap 3 of the workbook. Someone who is 20, 30 or 60 cannot choose a category. Therefore it's not exhaustive.

Percise is about a detailed question,  not too rough.

What is a stipulative definition?

The definition of a concept you use during your research. It's not so much about completeness, but about usability. It clearifies the object without being percise.

Also called a nominal definition. This is used when no good theoretical definition is at hand.

Example:
In this research, unemployed is someone who (a) wants to have a paid job and (b) whose desire is legitimate within a certain cultural context.

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