

 UNIVERSITY OF LUCKNOW

FACULTY OF LAW
Subject- RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Topic. Research problem-its meaning and types

Submitted to
Prof. Harishchandra Ram sir

: Submitted by:
ANSHUL SINGH
Roll no. 2410013215022
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and foremost, I sincerely salute to UNIVERSITY OF LUCKNOW

for
giving me this golden opportunity for fulfilling me warm dreams
in the field of
law.
I am extremely thankful to Professor DR. B. D. Singh (Head and
Dean of
Faculty of Law, UNIVERSITY OF LUCKNOW) and to all faculty
members of
law faculty for showing their interest in my assignment and
having belief in
my capabilities.
I express my most sincere gratitude to PROF. HARISHCHANDRA
RAM DR.
RUPAM LAL HOWLADER, for guiding me in the successful
completion of
Definition of Research Problem

A research problem is a specific issue, difficulty, contradiction, or gap in knowledge that a

researcher intends to address through a systematic investigation. It forms the foundation of a
research study and gives direction to the inquiry. A well-defined research problem clearly
identifies what the researcher aims to find out, understand, or explain. It can be expressed in
the form of a question, hypothesis, or statement of purpose.A research problem is a definite,
clear expression [statement] about an area of concern, a condition to be improved upon, a
difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly literature, in theory,
or within existing practice that points to a need for meaningful understanding and deliberate
investigation. A research problem does not state how to do something, offer a vague or broad
proposition, or present a value question. In the social and behavioral sciences, studies are
most often framed around examining a problem that needs to be understood and resolved in
order to improve society and the human condition.

For example, a research problem in social sciences could be: “What are the effects of social
media usage on the academic performance of college students?”

A research problem should be:

Clear and specific

Researchable through empirical methods

Relevant to the field of study

Feasible given the resources and time available

Importance of Research Problem in the Research Process

1. Foundation of the Research:

The research problem is the starting point of any research study. All subsequent steps—
literature review, hypothesis formation, methodology, and analysis—depend on the research
problem.

2. Determines Research Objectives

Clearly defining the problem helps establish the specific goals and objectives of the study

3. Gives Direction to the Study:

Without a clear problem, research can become unfocused or irrelevant. A well-formulated

problem keeps the researcher on track and ensures relevance to the field.

4. Helps in Evaluating Outcomes:

A defined research problem enables the researcher to measure the success of the study by
evaluating whether the problem has been effectively addressed

The purpose of a problem statement is to:

Introduces the reader to the importance of the topic being studied. The reader is oriented to
the significance of the study.

Anchors the research questions, hypotheses, or assumptions to follow. It offers a concise

statement about the purpose of your paper.

Places the topic into a particular context. It defines the parameters of what is to be
investigated.

Provides the framework for reporting the results. It indicates what is probably necessary to
conduct the study and explain how the findings will present this information.

Role in Guiding Research Design and Methodology

1. Choice of Research Design:

Whether the research is exploratory, descriptive, correlational, or experimental depends on

the nature of the research problem. For example, an exploratory problem may lead to
qualitative methods, while a causal problem may use experimental design.

2. Selection of Methods:

The tools and techniques used for data collection (interviews, surveys, experiments, etc.) are
chosen based on how best to address the research problem.

3. Identification of Variables:
A clearly defined problem allows the researcher to identify key variables and their potential
relationships.

4. Framing Research Questions and Hypotheses:

The research problem helps in formulating precise research questions and testable
hypotheses, which form the basis of data analysis and interpretation.

5. Ethical Considerations:

A well-framed problem ensures ethical clarity by specifying the population, scope, and
limitations of the study

 Understanding a Research Problem

A research problem is the backbone of any scientific or academic investigation. It is the issue
or concern that prompts a researcher to begin the study. Understanding a research problem
means identifying a gap in existing knowledge or recognizing an unsolved question that
needs answers through systematic inquiry. The formulation of a research problem involves a
deep understanding of the subject area, review of relevant literature, and clarity of purpose.A
research problem is a specific, clear question or issue that a researcher aims to address
through their study. It's a gap in knowledge, a contradiction in existing theory, or a real-world
challenge that the research seeks to explain, understand, or solve. A well-defined research
problem serves as the foundation for the entire research project, guiding the research process
and helping to focus the study's objectives and methods.

Key aspects of understanding a research problem:

Specificity:

A research problem should be focused and narrow enough to be investigated within the scope
of a single research project.

Relevance:

The problem should be significant and contribute to the existing body of knowledge or
address a real-world need.

Researchability:

The problem should be something that can be investigated using appropriate research
methods and data collection techniques.

Clarity:

The problem should be clearly and concisely stated, avoiding ambiguity and vagueness.

Justification:
The problem should be justified, explaining why it is important to study and what the
potential impact of the research would be.

Research problems typically arise when:

There is insufficient knowledge or clarity about a phenomenon.

There is a need to test a theory or hypothesis.

An existing condition requires improvement, innovation, or solution.

 What Constitutes a Research Problem

A research problem is a specific, focused issue or question that a researcher aims to address
through investigation. It represents a gap in existing knowledge, a contradiction in established
theory, or a real-world challenge that requires explanation or resolution. Essentially, it's the
central question that drives the entire research process.

A research problem consists of several key components:

1. An Existing Situation or Condition:

There must be a real-world issue or situation that needs exploration or understanding.

2. A Gap in Knowledge:

The research problem should point to something unknown or unexplored in the existing body
of literature.

3. A Need for Inquiry:

There should be a necessity or urgency to conduct research to address the problem.

4. Specificity and Focus:

The problem must be specific enough to be addressed within the scope of a research study.

5. Feasibility:

It should be possible to study the problem using available methods, tools, and resources.

6.Focus and Clarity:

A research problem should be clearly and concisely defined, focusing on a particular area of
inquiry.

7.Problem Statement:
The research problem is typically stated as a problem statement, which articulates the issue,
its significance, and its potential impact.

8.Guidance for Research:

The research problem acts as a compass, guiding the researcher in selecting appropriate
methods, formulating research questions, and ultimately, drawing conclusions.

---

Difference Between a Research Topic and a Research Problem

A research topic is a broad area of interest, while a research problem is a specific, focused
issue or gap within that area that needs to be addressed through research. Think of it as a
topic being a large umbrella and the problem being a specific rain shower under that
umbrella.

Elaboration :

Research Topic:

This is the general subject or area of inquiry you're interested in. It provides the overall
context for your research. For example, a research topic could be "teenage pregnancy in the
United Kingdom".

Research Problem:

This is a specific question, issue, or gap in knowledge within the broader topic that you
intend to investigate. It is the core question you are trying to answer through your research.
For example, a research problem could be "What factors contribute to higher rates of teenage
pregnancy in certain communities?".

In essence, a research problem is a subset of the research topic, and it helps to narrow the
scope of your research and provide a clear focus for your investigation. The research problem
guides the entire research process, from literature review to data analysis and interpretation.

For a more concrete example:

Research Topic: Climate change

Research Problem: How do rising sea levels impact coastal communities in Country

Characteristics of a Good Research Problem

1. Clear and Unambiguous:

The problem should be stated in a clear and concise manner, leaving no room for confusion.
2. Researchable:

It must be capable of being investigated through the collection and analysis of data.

3. Relevant:

The problem should be significant to the field of study and offer value to academia or society.

4. Feasible:

The research should be possible within the available time, budget, and resources.

5. Ethically Sound:

Investigating the problem should not violate ethical standards or harm any participants.

6. Novelty:

The problem should ideally address a gap in existing knowledge o Sources of Research
Problems

The formulation of a research problem begins with the identification of a suitable and
relevant issue to study. These issues or problems can arise from a variety of sources, each
offering a unique perspective and scope for inquiry. Recognizing these sources helps
researchers select meaningful and impactful research questions.Research problems can stem
from various sources, including personal and professional experiences, literature reviews,
existing research, theories, and even intuition or field observations. Identifying gaps in
knowledge, contradictions in theories, or practical issues can also lead to the formulation of a
research problem

1. Academic Literature

One of the most reliable and rich sources for identifying research problems is existing
academic literature such as journals, books, dissertations, and conference papers. A review of
past studies helps identify:

Gaps in current knowledg

Unanswered questions

Contradictions or inconsistencies in findings

Recommendations for future research

Example: A literature review on online education may reveal that little research has been
conducted on its impact on students with disabilities, leading to a new research problem

2. Real-World Issues
Current events, societal challenges, and ongoing developments often serve as immediate and
practical sources of research problems. These include issues related to healthcare, education,
environment, technology, and economics. Research that stems from real-world problems is
often socially relevant and has practical applications.

Example: The COVID-19 pandemic gave rise to numerous research problems in healthcare
management, remote working, and mental health.

3. Personal and professional Experience and Observation

Sometimes, personal experiences or observations in everyday life can spark curiosity and
inspire a research question. Researchers, especially in fields like education, psychology, or
sociology, often use their direct experiences as starting points for investigation.

Professional Experiences:

Direct observations or interactions in a professional setting can reveal areas where more
research is needed or where current practices could be improved, according to SlideShare.

For example, a nurse might observe a pattern of patient behavior in a crisis and wonder how
interventions could be improved, says a document from the University of Babylon.

A researcher in a field may find that their personal experiences are not aligned with the
current body of knowledge, notes Higs Software Solution.

Example: A teacher noticing a decline in students’ concentration due to mobile phone usage
may form a research problem around digital distractions in classrooms.

4. Theories and Conceptual Frameworks

Established theories often suggest areas where empirical validation is required or where
theoretical extensions could be proposed. A researcher can identify gaps, inconsistencies, or
untested variables within a framework and formulate a problem accordingly.

Example: Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs may inspire research into whether self-actualization
is achievable in low-income populations under specific conditions.

5. Policy Documents and Government Reports

Government publications, policy briefs, white papers, and statistical reports can provide
essential data and insights into ongoing issues within a country or region. These documents
often highlight national priorities, underserved populations, and areas in need of reform or
further study.

Example: A government report on unemployment trends might reveal the need for research
into the effectiveness of skill development programs among rural youth.

6.Consulting Experts and Stakeholders:

Seeking input from experts in a field or consulting with stakeholders can help identify
pressing issues or gaps in research.

For example, a researcher might consult with clinicians, policymakers, or community

members to gain insights into a particular problem.

7. Intuition, Brainstorming, and Serendipitous Ideas:

A researcher's intuition or brainstorming sessions can lead to unexpected research ideas or

problems.

Serendipitous findings during research or observation can also be a source.

For example, a researcher might develop a research idea based on a chance encounter or a
seemingly unrelated observation,---

By exploring these sources, researchers are able to ground their problems in evidence,
ensuring that their work is relevant, original, and contributes meaningfully to their field.

Criteria for Selecting a Research Problem

Choosing the right research problem is one of the most critical steps in the research process.
A well-selected problem not only defines the scope and direction of the study but also
determines its success and value. A good research problem should be significant, original,
feasible, solvable, and relevant to the field of study. It should also be interesting to the
researcher, ethical, and within their competence. Additionally, the problem should be clear,
specific, and unambiguous.

Below are the key criteria that should guide the selection of a research problem:

1. Feasibility

The research problem must be realistic and achievable within the available time, resources,
and skills of the researcher. Overly ambitious or complex problems can result in incomplete
orinconclusive research.

Considerations include:

Time constraints (deadlines, academic calendars)

Budget and funding availability

Access to respondents, locations, or equipment

Technical skills required to collect and analyze dat

Example: A student may want to study the effects of climate change globally but should
narrow the problem down to a specific region or aspect for feasibility.

2. Researcher’s Interest and Expertise

The researcher’s personal interest and background knowledge in the subject are essential. A
topic that aligns with the researcher's curiosity and field of study is more likely to be pursued
with dedication and enthusiasm.

Benefits include:

Sustained motivation over the course of the study

Better understanding of the context and concepts

Ability to engage critically with existing literature

Example: A psychology student interested in behavior analysis might explore how parenting
styles affect children's emotional development.

3. Availability of Data and Resources

Access to reliable and sufficient data is crucial to addressing the research problem effectively.
Before finalizing the problem, researchers must ensure that relevant data sources—whether
primary or secondary—are accessible and adequate.

Considerations include:

Availability of participants or respondents

Access to libraries, databases, or archives

Instruments and tools for data collection

Example: A study on public health will require access to health records, surveys, or
interviews with professionals, all of which must be realistically obtainable.

4. Ethical Considerations

Ethical soundness is a non-negotiable criterion. The research must respect the rights, privacy,
and dignity of participants, especially in studies involving human subjects. Any potential
harm, bias, or violation of ethical standards must be avoided.

Key ethical aspects:

Informed consent

Confidentiality and anonymity

Non-harmful procedures
Institutional ethical approval

Example: Research involving children or vulnerable populations

5. Originality and Novelty:

The research problem should not be a repetition of previously conducted studies.

It should offer a fresh perspective or approach to an existing issue.

6. Ethical Considerations:

The research should be conducted ethically, with due regard for the rights and well-being of
participants.

Ethical guidelines should be followed throughout the research process.

7. Clarity and Specificity:

The research problem should be clearly defined and unambiguous.

It should be specific enough to guide the research process and allow for focused
investigation.

8. Data Availability:

The researcher should be able to access the necessary data to address the problem.

This may involve collecting data through surveys, experiments, or other research methods.

9. Administrative and Peer Support:

The researcher should have access to the necessary resources and support from their
institution or research team.

This may include access to funding, facilities, and mentorship.

10. Being Current:

The problem should be relevant to current trends and issues in the field.

It should not be based on outdated or irrelevant information.

Types of Research Problems

Research problems can be classified into various types based on their purpose, nature, and the
kind of questions they aim to answer. Identifying the type of research problem helps
determine the appropriate methodology, data collection techniques, and analytical approach.
The five common types are
1. Descriptive Research Problems

A descriptive research problem seeks to describe the characteristics of a phenomenon, group,

or situation. It answers the “what” questions without exploring the causes or relationships.

Purpose:

To obtain a detailed picture or profile of a situation

Examples:

What are the demographic characteristics of online shoppers in urban India?

What teaching strategies are commonly used in primary schools?

Methodology:

Often uses surveys, observations, or document analysis.

2. Relational Research Problems

Relational research problems explore the relationship between two or more variables. These
problems aim to find whether a connection or correlation exists between different aspects of
the subject matter.

Purpose:

To understand how variables are related.

Examples:

Is there a relationship between social media use and anxiety levels in college students?

What is the correlation between employee satisfaction and productivity?

Methodology:

Uses statistical analysis to measure correlations or associations

3. Causal Research Problems

Causal research problems seek to determine cause-and-effect relationships. They go beyond

correlation by attempting to identify whether one variable directly influences another.

Purpose:

To test hypotheses about cause and effect.

Examples:
Does online learning lead to better academic performance than traditional classroom learning

What is the effect of minimum wage increases on employment rates?

Methodology:

Often involves experiments or longitudinal studies where variables are manipulated and
controlled

1. 4. Exploratory Research Problem

An exploratory research problem is used when the researcher has a vague or general idea
about a topic but needs to explore it further to define a clear

Here's a detailed section on Common Mistakes in Formulating a Research Problem, which

will help enrich your assignment further

Common Mistakes in Formulating a Research Proble

Formulating a research problem is a crucial step that lays the foundation for the entire
research process. However, researchers—especially beginners—often make common
mistakes during this stage. These mistakes can compromise the quality, focus, and success of
the research. Being aware of these pitfalls helps in refining the research problem to ensure
clarity, feasibility, and relevance.

1. Being Too Broad or Too Narrow

Too Broad:

A research problem that is too general or expansive lacks focus and direction. It becomes
difficult to define variables, design research tools, or draw meaningful conclusions.

Example (Too Broad):

“The impact of education on society.”

(This is too vast and undefined.)

Too Narrow:

An overly specific problem may limit the scope of research and make it difficult to gather
sufficient data or draw generalizable conclusions.

Example (Too Narrow):

“The effect of a single textbook on 5 students' exam scores in one school.”

REFERENCES

1. Kothari, C. R. (2004). Research methodology: Methods and techniques (2nd ed.). New
Age International Publishers.

– A widely used book in Indian universities that explains research problem identification and
methodology in detail.

2. Garg, B. L., Karadia, R., Agarwal, F., & Agarwal, U. K. (2002). An introduction to
research methodology. RBSA Publishers.

– An Indian publication focused on the practical aspects of research, including how to define
a problem.

3. Panneerselvam, R. (2014). Research methodology (2nd ed.). PHI Learning Pvt. Ltd.

– Includes examples and case studies relevant to Indian contexts, covering problem
formulation.

4. Krishnaswamy, K. N., Sivakumar, A. I., & Mathirajan, M. (2009). Management research

methodology: Integration of principles, methods and techniques. Pearson Education India.

– Suitable for social science and management research with Indian examples.

5. Goel, S. L. (2008). Research methodology in social sciences. Deep & Deep Publications.

– A good source for social science students in India, with focus on real-life issues and how to
develop a research problem around them.

6. Tripathi, P. C. (2012). A text book of research methodology in social sciences. Sultan

Chand & Sons.

– A traditional and accessible text often recommended in Indian universities.