NurseSpurk

I am having trouble identifying the sampling design used in this study. "Transplant recipients living in a Midwestern metropolitan area were recruited through clinician referral, direct mailings from patient advocacy groups, and brochures placed in outpatient clinics and pharmacies. Inclusion criteria were a function- ing solid-organ transplant (ie, kidney, kidney/pancreas, pancreas, lung, liver, heart, or heart-lung), age 18 years or older, ability to read and write English, and willingness to attend classes. To avoid the confounding effects of surgical recovery, patients were at least 6 months posttransplant. Exclusions were being medically unstable or on dialysis, having serious preexisting mental health issues, or having previously practiced MBSR." Any help will be greatly appreciated!

I was not sure of where exactly to put this. I am supposed to critique a research article following a specific rubric. I'm having a lot of trouble with identifying the framework. I am supposed to define the theoretical or conceptual framework of the research article. So I have to determine which type of framework it has and describe it. As far as I understand, the framework of a study is its "conceptual underpinning" right? Like what phenomenon is being studied, what variables are related to the phenomenon, and what outcomes the researcher expects to find (and why). I'm not sure about that, but I welcome any clarification. I'm having the most trouble understanding the difference between a theoretical and conceptual framework. I have consulted with my professor a few times about my concerns and despite her best efforts, I end up more confused than when we started. Frankly, I'm extremely flustered. I don't want to sound arrogant but I have maintained a 4.0 so far and I feel like I have found my Achille's heel with this research class. So, if anyone can help me I'd REALLY appreciate it: What exactly is the framework of a research study? How would one find it when it is not explicitly stated in the text? What is the difference between a theoretical and a conceptual framework? Would it be considered a theoretical framework even if no specific theory is referenced in the text or defined as the framework? What if the study seems to not draw from any specific theory or concept model? Can one argue that it draws inspiration for several theories, several concept models, or a combination of the two? I'll appreciate any help!