Focal Concerns Theory, Propensity Score Matching, and Racial Profiling Covers the use of focal concerns theory as a theoretical explanation and the use of propensity score matching as the statistical analysis

Theory has been underutilized in racial profiling studies, but the importance of theory cannot be overstated. A theory is a set of interconnected statements or propositions that explain how two or more events or factors are related to one another (Akers & Sellers, 2009). Theory allows researchers to explain why a behavior (including racial profiling) may take place. Without theory, researchers have no clear justification for analyzing the problem and determining what variables should be used. Theories help explain empirical data and aid understanding of why specific behaviors occur (Higgins, 2005). When a theory is not present in the research, significant variables are only viewed as correlates, because there is less information to guide their use. Implications, drawn from correlates, provide less information to contextualize the research.