Middle-range theory is an approach to sociological theory that lies between minor and essential working hypotheses and the entire systematic, unified theory. Such working hypotheses are perceived to be more elaborate than simple empirical generalizations. Middle-range theories are also defined as sets of assumptions used to derive general empirical assumptions. Such theories provide a method of sociological thinking that entails a combination of theories and actual evidence. The middle-range theories were developed by Robert Merton, and the main aim was to enable the explanation of social phenomena as an alternative to the general theory of inquiry. Currently, the middle-range theory is used in the development of sociological theories, especially in the United States. An analysis of the effectiveness of the middle-range theories shows that they contain various internal and external issues that influence their applicability and reliability.
Internal criticism refers to the internal structure of how the various components of the theory fit together to make the theory operational. Internal criticism investigates numerous questions about how the theory’s various components interact to make the model effective. Such aspects entail the assumptions maintained, the logical flow of ideas and processes, and how the theory attains consistency (Kislov et al., 2019). One critical question about middle-range theories is how such hypotheses attain clarity, adequacy, and logic. According to Im (2018), middle-range theories are developed specifically for a unique problem, thus having a limited scope of application. Middle-range theories are perceived to be situation-specific, and therefore they cannot be used for the description of all phenomena due to their scope of approach (Im, 2018). This aspect is based on the fact that such specifications make the theories more elaborate and less generalized. In addition, the theory cannot be used independently as it is built on other existing theories. Such a feature makes the theory have role limitations caused by its structure.
On the other hand, external criticism shows that the theories can be understood without lengthy explanations and descriptions. According to Kaidesoja (2018), middle-range theories have limited concepts and are placed between realistic and abstract assumptions. This aspect makes the theories only used to bridge other theories as they lack the reality of convergence. In addition, the theories are used as coherent intellectual frameworks, making their use complex (Kislov et al., 2019). Such practices limit the ability of individuals to use specific theories in research or practice due to their discriminatory significance. Middle-range theories are also dynamic and are generated from the multifunctional account (Kaidesoja, 2018). It is held that such theories have not logically descended from a single generalized theory of social systems. The lack of a single line of thought in the middle-range theory makes it lack specific applicability as it cannot be used to guide research.
The evaluation of the internal and external criticism of middle-range theories requires varied procedures. While internal criticism focuses on the evaluation of the structure of a theory, external evaluation involves the relationship between a concept and its relationship with the research. Internal criticism examines aspects like a logical development, consistency, adequacy, clarity, and the theory development level. On the other hand, external criticism examines aspects like utility, discrimination significance, reality convergence, the scope of approach, and complexity. Based on the evaluation process, it is discovered that the significance of middle-range theories depends on how they meet internal and external criticism. An approach that meets all the criteria of providing a testable research hypothesis is perceived as significant in examining social phenomena. Middle-range theories do not work independently as they are used to enhance the relationship between theory and evidence. Therefore, they do not meet all the criteria of an effective theory.
References
Im, E. (2018). Theory development strategies for middle-range theories. Advances in Nursing Science, 41(3), 275-292.
Kaidesoja, T. (2018). A dynamic and multifunctional account of middle‐range theories. The British Journal of Sociology, 70(4), 1469-1489.
Kislov, R., Pope, C., Martin, G., & Wilson, P. (2019). Harnessing the power of theorising in implementation science. Implementation Science, 14(1).