1) State a research question (i.e., does living in a single parent household increase crime?)- do not use my example, one close to it or what we use in class (WORTH 10 POINTS).
2) State a hypothesis to your research question (i.e., I hypothesize that children who grew up in only a mother's care will have higher rates of crime) (WORTH 10 POINTS). Note how specific this is and directional- I am picking whether crime will be higher or lower.
3) Write a 200 word minimum (add the word count to the end of the paragraph) on how you are defining and measuring your IV and DV. Be explicit here (WORTH 20 POINTS). Defining and measuring are two different things, stick to the topic.
4) Develop 10 multiple choice survey questions (and answers) that will begin to determine if your research hypothesis correct
Sample Solution
Research Question: Does living in a single-parent household increase the risk of juvenile delinquency?
Hypothesis: I hypothesize that adolescents who live in single-parent households are at an increased risk of juvenile delinquency.
Defining and Measuring Variables
Independent Variable (IV): Single-parent household
A single-parent household is defined as a household in which there is only one parent present. This can be due to a number of factors, such as divorce, separation, or death.
Full Answer Section
To measure the IV, I would use a self-report questionnaire to ask adolescents whether they live in a single-parent household. I would also collect data on the composition of the household, such as whether the adolescent lives with their mother, father, or other guardian(s).
Dependent Variable (DV): Juvenile delinquency
Juvenile delinquency is defined as criminal behavior committed by a minor. This can include a wide range of offenses, such as theft, vandalism, and assault.
To measure the DV, I would use official juvenile delinquency records. These records would include information on the type of offense committed, the date of the offense, and the outcome of the case.
How the IV and DV Will Be Measured
To measure the IV and DV, I would use a mixed-methods approach. I would use a self-report questionnaire to collect data on the adolescents' household composition and juvenile delinquency records to collect data on their actual delinquency behavior. This approach would allow me to triangulate the data and get a more complete picture of the relationship between single-parent households and juvenile delinquency.
200 Words Minimum
The definition of juvenile delinquency varies from state to state, but it generally refers to criminal behavior committed by a minor. This can include a wide range of offenses, such as theft, vandalism, and assault. Juvenile delinquency is a serious problem, as it can have a negative impact on the individual's life as well as the community.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to juvenile delinquency, including poverty, family dysfunction, and exposure to violence. Living in a single-parent household is one factor that has been linked to an increased risk of juvenile delinquency.
There are a few possible explanations for this link. First, single-parent households may be more likely to experience poverty, which is a risk factor for juvenile delinquency. Second, single-parent households may be more likely to experience family dysfunction, such as conflict or instability, which can also lead to juvenile delinquency. Third, adolescents who live in single-parent households may be more likely to be exposed to violence, either in the home or in the community, which can also increase their risk of delinquency.
It is important to note that the relationship between single-parent households and juvenile delinquency is complex. Not all adolescents who live in single-parent households will become delinquent. However, the research suggests that living in a single-parent household is a risk factor for juvenile delinquency.