ABSTRACT
The relationship between theory and measurement takes many forms (see Figure 4.1). Firstly, a theoretical perspective is implicit within any discipline. In line with this, this chapter will primarily examine the relationship between theory and measurement in terms of matching a theoretical perspective with whatever is being measured. Secondly, a theory needs to be translated into a measurement tool. This itself involves a theory of measurement concerned with how best this can be done. Therefore, this chapter will examine the processes of conceptualization and operationalization, and the strategies of reliability and validity as these are described by the theory of measurement as essential to this translation process. Finally, the belief that theories can be measured is itself a theoretical position. To conclude, the chapter will explore the origins of this belief and the role of the relationships between theory and measurement in supporting and perpetuating the perspective inherent within any attempts at measurement.
