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A Conceptual Examination of Theorizing Syndromes in Doctoral Studies: A Case in the Information Sciences

A Conceptual Examination of Theorizing Syndromes in Doctoral Studies: A Case in the Information Sciences
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Author(s): Samson Mutsagondo (Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE)
Copyright: 2026
Pages: 26
Source title: Navigating Theory, Methodology, and Researcher Development in Doctoral Research
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Robin Throne (University of the Cumberlands, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3373-5676-1.ch008

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Abstract

Theoretical and conceptual frameworks form the basis of sound research. They provide the bedrock upon which research is structured. They help to explain, predict, and guide research. Nonetheless, some doctoral dissertations and theses completely omit the use of theoretical or conceptual frameworks, in which case the researchers commit an error of omission. Atheoretical studies often result in poorly structured research with questionable and contested results. The common miscue that this chapter focuses on is the error of commission, where theoretical and conceptual frameworks are often misunderstood, poorly articulated, and wrongly applied in dissertations and theses with a focus on the information science discipline. Doctoral students should expend energy, time, and effort to grasp the correct use and application of theoretical and conceptual frameworks to avoid falling victim to the syndromes of wrong theorization, the syndrome of theory window-dressing, the syndrome of under-theorization, the syndrome of over-theorization, and the syndrome of interchanged theorization.

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