by Research Problem is a specific issue, difficulty or question that a researcher wants to investigate systematically. In social science, research problems may arise from social conditions, human behaviour, organisations, relationships or gaps in existing knowledge. Identifying the type of research problem helps researchers select suitable objectives, methods and data collection techniques. Common types include descriptive, exploratory, explanatory, comparative, evaluative and predictive research problems.
1. Descriptive Research Problem
A descriptive research problem focuses on describing the characteristics, conditions or behaviour of a particular group, situation or phenomenon. It answers questions such as what, who, where, when and how much. The researcher generally collects information through surveys, observations, interviews or existing records. For example, a study may examine the level of job satisfaction among employees in private companies. Descriptive research does not primarily attempt to explain why something happens. Instead, it provides a clear picture of the existing situation. It is useful for understanding population characteristics, social conditions, consumer preferences, employee attitudes and other measurable aspects of social life.
2. Exploratory Research Problem
An exploratory research problem arises when limited information is available about a particular issue or phenomenon. The purpose is to explore the problem, develop better understanding and identify possible factors or ideas for further investigation. Researchers may use interviews, focus groups, observations, case studies and literature reviews. For example, a researcher may explore why young consumers are increasingly choosing sustainable products. Exploratory research is flexible and does not necessarily begin with a fixed hypothesis. It helps identify important variables, develop research questions and generate possible explanations. Thus, exploratory research is particularly useful when the problem is new, unclear or insufficiently studied.
3. Explanatory Research Problem
An explanatory research problem focuses on understanding why a particular phenomenon occurs and how different factors are related to each other. It attempts to explain relationships between variables rather than simply describing them. Researchers may use hypotheses and statistical techniques to examine these relationships. For example, a study may investigate whether employee training improves job performance and determine the reasons behind the relationship. Explanatory research is often based on existing theories and previous research findings. It helps researchers identify possible causes, effects and relationships. Therefore, this type of research problem provides deeper understanding of social and business phenomena.
4. Comparative Research Problem
A comparative research problem involves examining differences or similarities between two or more groups, organisations, situations or time periods. The researcher compares selected characteristics to understand how and why they differ. For example, a researcher may compare job satisfaction among employees working in public and private sector organisations. Comparative research can examine differences in behaviour, attitudes, performance, income, education or organisational practices. It may use quantitative or qualitative methods depending on the research objective. This type of problem helps researchers identify patterns and differences between groups. It is useful for understanding the factors responsible for variations in social and organisational conditions.
5. Evaluative Research Problem
An evaluative research problem focuses on assessing the effectiveness, efficiency, usefulness or impact of a particular programme, policy, project or activity. It determines whether the intended objectives have been achieved. For example, a researcher may evaluate whether a company’s employee training programme has improved employee productivity. Data may be collected before and after implementation or through surveys, interviews and performance records. Evaluation research is useful for organisations, governments and institutions when deciding whether to continue, modify or discontinue a programme. Therefore, it provides evidence about the actual outcomes and helps decision makers improve existing policies, programmes and practices.
6. Predictive Research Problem
A predictive research problem focuses on forecasting future events, behaviours or outcomes based on existing information and relationships between variables. It attempts to determine what is likely to happen under particular conditions. For example, a business researcher may study customer purchasing patterns to predict future product demand. Predictive research often uses historical data, statistical techniques and analytical models. It can help organisations anticipate customer behaviour, employee turnover, sales trends and market changes. Although predictions are not always certain, research can identify probable outcomes based on available evidence. Thus, predictive research supports planning, risk management and decision making in social and business environments.
7. Correlational Research Problem
A correlational research problem examines whether and to what extent two or more variables are related. It determines whether changes in one variable are associated with changes in another variable. For example, a researcher may study the relationship between employee motivation and job performance. Correlation can be positive, negative or absent. However, correlation by itself does not prove that one variable causes another. Researchers commonly use statistical techniques to measure the strength and direction of relationships. Correlational research is useful in social science because many behaviours and conditions cannot be directly controlled by researchers. It helps identify meaningful relationships for further investigation.
8. Causal Research Problem
A causal research problem investigates whether a change in one variable produces a change in another variable. It focuses on cause and effect relationships. For example, a researcher may examine whether employee training causes an improvement in productivity. Causal research generally requires careful research design and control of other factors that may influence the outcome. Experiments and quasi experimental methods are commonly used for studying causal relationships. In social science, establishing causality can be difficult because human behaviour is influenced by many factors. Nevertheless, causal research provides valuable information for understanding the effects of policies, programmes, strategies and interventions.
