| Learning Objective #1: Compare and contrast the frequency of use of research hypotheses in nursing research during the decade of the 1980s with that of the 1990s. | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Identify the trends and characteristics of research hypotheses testing in nursing research including author characteristics, complexity, direction, and obtaining and reporting statistical support. |
Background: Hypothesis testing in science increases the generality of findings and provides the discipline with dependable knowledge. Yet, a trend has been observed of a notable decrease in hypothesis testing in nursing studies.
Method: Retrospective design was used. Five years from the 1980s (1980, 1982, 1983, 1985, 1987) and the 1990s (1990, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996) were randomly identified to obtain the initial sample (n=582). After eliminating non-research articles, 517 remained for analyses.
Results: Only 29% of the articles published during the two decades stated a hypothesis. During the 1980s, 35% (98/273) stated at least one hypothesis, while during the 1990s, only 21% (52/244) did the same. Logistic analysis showed this decrease was statistically significant by decade (χ2=17.44(1), p<.05). Analysis of effects showed that while the first author education had no impact (χ2= .95(3), p>.05), the study purpose influenced it significantly (χ2= 45(3), p<.01): explanatory (χ2=10.30(1), p<.05) and prediction/control studies (χ2= 17.19(1), p<.05 ) had significantly positive effect, exploratory studies had no effect (χ2=.75(1), p>.05), and descriptive studies had negative effect (χ2= 32.52(1), p<.05) with an estimate value of -2.31.
Implications: Nursing research studies showed a trend towards a declining use of hypothesis testing from 1980s to the 1990s. Study purpose had an effect during both decades whether or not a study would include hypothesis. These findings have important implications for doctoral education in nursing. Evaluation of the significance of hypothesis testing for nursing science is recommended.