A theoretical abstraction formed by researchers, based on observations and ideas, often represents a complex concept not directly observable. Examples include intelligence, motivation, satisfaction, and brand loyalty. These mental representations are created to organize and give meaning to observations, allowing for the development of hypotheses and theories. For instance, “job satisfaction” is not directly seen, but is inferred from various employee behaviors and attitudes like attendance, performance, and expressed sentiments.
Understanding and utilizing these abstract concepts is vital for advancing knowledge in various fields, particularly the social sciences. It enables researchers to study phenomena that are complex and multifaceted. Furthermore, employing these abstract concepts facilitates the creation of standardized instruments, such as surveys and tests, which provide a framework for systematically gathering and analyzing data. Historically, the formalization of these concepts has improved the rigor and replicability of research findings.
