Chapter 2

Defining the Research Problem

The Research Problem/Question:
Before you conceive of your project, you need to ask yourself “What is a research problem?”
A research problem definition can be broadly put forward as the primary statement of a knowledge
gap or a fundamental challenge in a field, which forms the foundation for research. Conversely,
the findings from a research investigation provide solutions to the problem.

A research problem guides the selection of approaches and methodologies, data collection, and
interpretation of results to find answers or solutions. A well-defined problem determines the
generation of valuable insights and contributions to the broader intellectual discourse.

A research problem is a statement about an area of concern, a condition to be improved, a difficulty

to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly literature, in theory, or in practice
that points to the need for meaningful understanding and deliberate investigation. In some social
science disciplines the research problem is typically posed in the form of a question. A research
problem does not state how to do something, offer a vague or broad proposition, or present a value
question.
Characteristics of a Research Problem
Knowing the characteristics of a research problem is instrumental in formulating a research
inquiry; take a look at the five key characteristics below:

Novel: An ideal research problem introduces a fresh perspective, offering something new to the
existing body of knowledge. It should contribute original insights and address unresolved matters
or essential knowledge.

Significant: A problem should hold significance in terms of its potential impact on theory,
practice, policy, or the understanding of a particular phenomenon. It should be relevant to the field
of study, addressing a gap in knowledge, a practical concern, or a theoretical dilemma that holds
significance.

Feasible: A practical research problem allows for the formulation of hypotheses and the design of
research methodologies. A feasible research problem is one that can realistically be investigated
given the available resources, time, and expertise. It should not be too broad or too narrow to
explore effectively, and should be measurable in terms of its variables and outcomes. It should be
amenable to investigation through empirical research methods, such as data collection and
analysis, to arrive at meaningful conclusions. A practical research problem considers budgetary
and time constraints, as well as limitations of the problem. These limitations may arise due to
constraints in methodology, resources, or the complexity of the problem.
Clear and specific: A well-defined research problem is clear and specific, leaving no room for
ambiguity; it should be easily understandable and precisely articulated. Ensuring specificity in
the problem ensures that it is focused, addresses a distinct aspect of the broader topic and is not
vague.

Rooted in evidence: A good research problem leans on trustworthy evidence and data, while
dismissing unverifiable information. It must also consider ethical guidelines, ensuring the well-
being and rights of any individuals or groups involved in the study.

Characteristics of an effective research problem

There are several factors that ensure a research problem is clear, well-defined and easy to follow
throughout the duration of a study. Understanding these aspects of a research problem can help
as you identify and create your own. Some characteristics to consider when aiming to define a
research problem include:

• Reflecting on issues or required knowledge in a particular field prior to

conducting a study
• Ensuring that the topic you aim to examine has a sufficient amount of
relevant data
• Relying on reputable evidence and data and disregarding information
that you can't verify
• Remaining practical, manageable and communicative with researchers
involved in data collection and analysis
• Adhering strictly to a budget and timeline

A clearly stated research problem should have the following elements

o The exact problem or issue that has to be looked at should be clearly defined.
o In terms of time, money, and scope, be specialized and limited enough to be
controllable.
o To contribute to the collection of knowledge already in existence and to the topic
of study, be relevant.
o In terms of accessible data, resources, and study methodologies, it must be useful
and realistic.
o Be engaging and intellectually fascinating for the researcher's benefit and that of
any possible readers or audiences.
 How to Define a Research Problem
You might now ask “How to define a research problem?” These are the general steps to follow:

1. Look for a broad problem area: Identify under-explored aspects or areas of concern, or a
controversy in your topic of interest. Evaluate the significance of addressing the problem in terms
of its potential contribution to the field, practical applications, or theoretical insights.
2. Learn more about the problem: Read the literature, starting from historical aspects to the current
status and latest updates. Rely on reputable evidence and data. Be sure to consult researchers who
work in the relevant field, mentors, and peers. Do not ignore the gray literature on the subject.
3. Identify the relevant variables and how they are related: Consider which variables are most
important to the study and will help answer the research question. Once this is done, you will need
to determine the relationships between these variables and how these relationships affect
the research problem.
4. Think of practical aspects: Deliberate on ways that your study can be practical and feasible in
terms of time and resources. Discuss practical aspects with researchers in the field and be open to
revising the problem based on feedback. Refine the scope of the research problem to make it
manageable and specific; consider the resources available, time constraints, and feasibility.
5. Formulate the problem statement: Craft a concise problem statement that outlines the specific
issue, its relevance, and why it needs further investigation.
6. Stick to plans, but be flexible: When defining the problem, plan ahead but adhere to your budget
and timeline. At the same time, consider all possibilities and ensure that the problem and question
can be modified if needed.

Some Examples of Research Problems:

1. Research Problem in Psychology
o Investigating how social media affects teenage mental health.
o Examining cognitive-behavioral therapy's efficacy in the treatment of anxiety conditions.
o Examining how pregnancy stress affects the growth of the kid.
o Reviewing the causes of addiction and relapse in the context of medication misuse
therapy.
o Examining how personality characteristics affect love partnerships.

2. Research Problem in Economics

o Examining how trade policies affect progress and prosperity in the economy.
o Examining the effects of automation and artificial intelligence on job prospects and labor
marketplaces.
o Investigating the causes of poverty and economic disparity.
o Analyze how monetary and budgetary policies affect inflation and the economy's health.
 o Investigating the link between financial results, such as income and jobs, and education.

3. Research Problem in Sociology

o Examining the connection between social assistance and outcomes in mental health in underserved
areas.

o Investigating the effects of globalization on job prospects and labor marketplaces.

o Examining the reasons behind and effects of urbanization in metropolitan areas.

o Investigating how family structure affects economic and societal results.

o Examining how social capital affects the stability and growth of local communities.

4. Research Problem in Environmental Science

o Investigating how atmospheric pollution affects people's health and well-being.
o Research into the connection between species decline and climate change.
o Investigating how aquatic habitats and food webs are affected by ocean acidification.
o Looking into the connection between ecological resilience and urban growth.
o Evaluating the success of environmental laws and policies in fostering protection and
survival.

AN ILLUSTRATION
The technique of defining a problem outlined above can be illustrated for better understanding by taking
an example as under: Let us suppose that a research problem in a broad general way is as follows:
“Why is productivity in Japan so much higher than in India”? In this form the question has a number of
ambiguities such as: What sort of productivity is being referred to? With what industries the same is
related? With what period of time the productivity is being talked about? In view of all such ambiguities
the given statement or the question is much too general to be amenable to analysis. Rethinking and
discussions about the problem may result in narrowing down the question to: “What factors were
responsible for the higher labour productivity of Japan’s manufacturing industries during the decade 1971
to 1980 relative to India’s manufacturing industries?” This latter version of the problem is definitely an
improvement over its earlier version for the various ambiguities have been removed to the extent
possible. Further rethinking and rephrasing might place the problem on a still better operational basis as
shown below: “To what extent did labour productivity in 1971 to 1980 in Japan exceed that of India in
respect of 15 selected manufacturing industries? What factors were responsible for the productivity
differentials between the two countries by industries?” With this sort of formulation, the various terms
involved such as ‘labour productivity’, ‘productivity differentials’, etc. must be explained clearly. The
researcher must also see that the necessary data are available. In case the data for one or more industries
selected are not available for the concerning time-period, then the said industry or industries will have to
be substituted by other industry or industries.The suitability of the time-period must also be examined.
Thus, all relevant factors must be considered by a researcher before finally defining a research problem.