Researchers develop a research question by identifying a specific focus within a broader topic and refining it based on the context, existing literature and the aims of the study. When exploring the meanings of health to young people, researchers may start with a broad interest in understanding how youth perceive health in today's world. From there, they might review existing literature found through research articles, Google Scholar or Perplexity to determine gaps in knowledge.

For example, they might find that while studies have examined physical health among young people, there is less research on how young people value mental and emotional wellbeing in comparison to previous generations.

This initial investigation allows researchers to formulate a focus question such as,
"How do young Australians define and prioritise mental health compared to physical health?" which aims to address a specific knowledge gap.

Once the focus is narrowed, researchers further develop the question by considering the social, cultural and technological factors that could influence young people's perceptions of health. For instance, if researchers notice that social media plays a major role in shaping youth perceptions, they may adjust their question to examine this influence, asking, "In what ways does social media influence young people's perceptions of mental health in Australia?"

This refined question helps to clarify the study’s objectives and allows researchers to focus on a specific factor. By narrowing the research question in this way, they ensure the study is manageable, relevant and able to provide insights into how young Australians’ meanings of health are shaped by contemporary influences.

To create a research question, researchers narrow a broad topic by reviewing literature to identify knowledge gaps, then refine the focus by considering relevant influences.

7 Step Plan to Create a Research Question

1. Select a Broad Topic 

Choose an area of interest, such as "young people's views on health."

2. Conduct a Literature Review 

Examine existing studies and research to identify less-explored areas or gaps, such as limited research on mental health perspectives.

3. Identify Knowledge Gaps

Pinpoint specific areas lacking research, such as young people's prioritisation of mental  versus physical health.

4. Define the Focus

Refine the topic by concentrating on a specific aspect, for instance, young Australians'  mental health priorities. 

5. Consider Relevant Influences

Account for social, cultural or technological factors, such as the influence of social media.

6. Formulate the Question 

Develop a clear, targeted question such as; "How does social media impact young Australians' perspectives on mental health?"

7. Refine for Clarity and Scope

Adjust wording for precision, resulting in; "How does social media impact young Australians’ views on mental health?"

NB:

You will need to go through a similar process with the Collaborative Investigation so as you do this investigation, think of it as practice for the future. There will be other opportunities for research later on in Focus Area Two- The Body and Mind in Motion for the immediate physiological adaptations in response to aerobic training.

It is now time to choose the method that is going to be used to collect data from young people on their meanings of health. There are many research methods to be utilised.

Research methodologies can be conducted using primary research (first hand) or secondary research (existing data that has been collected by others). Methodologies can be remembered using the acronym S.I.F.C.O.L.E.

Surveys, interviews, focus groups, case studies, content analysis, observation, literature review and/or experiments.

• Survey/questionnaire
• Interview
• Focus groups
• Case study or content analysis
• Observation
• Literature review
• Experiments

Surveys (Questionnaires)

A survey/questionnaire is a structured primary research method used for collecting data from many individuals, usually through a set of standardised open or closed questions.

To use a survey effectively, researchers first define clear objectives, such as understanding young people’s meanings of health. Next they design relevant questions, ensuring they are unbiased and may include both closed and open-ended formats for depth. Researchers then sample a diverse group of participants and administer the survey consistently, often online for ease of data collection. Once responses are gathered, the data is analysed to draw conclusions aligned with the research goals, and findings are reported with visual aids to enhance clarity. Ethical considerations such as informed consent and confidentiality are essential throughout the process.

10 Steps to Conducting Surveys

1. Define Objectives

Determine the purpose of the survey and what you want to achieve. For example, clarify if the goal is to understand young people’s views on health.

2. Identify Target Sample

Specify the sample group you want to survey such as age, background, or location ensuring it aligns with the research objectives. Ensure ethical considerations such as informed consent, integrity, respect and privacy throughout the process.

3. Draft Survey Questions

Develop clear and unbiased questions, mixing closed-ended questions (like multiple-choice or rating scales) with open-ended questions to capture qualitative data.

4. Select Survey Format

Decide on the survey format, such as online, paper-based, or in-person based on the  audience’s accessibility and preference.

5. Pilot Test the Survey

Conduct a small test run with a sample group to check for clarity, relevance and any needed adjustments in question wording or layout.

6. Refine Questions Based on Feedback

Review feedback from the pilot test and make necessary improvements to ensure questions are understandable and effectively capture desired information.

7. Administer the Survey

Distribute the survey to the full target audience, maintaining consistent instructions and ensuring ethical standards like informed consent and confidentiality.

8. Collect and Gather Data
Organise and gather the responses aligned with the objectives by presenting results with visuals, such as graphs or tables.

9. Analyse and Interpret the data
Interpret the findings in the context of the research objectives and draw conclusions based on the results.

10. Report and Share Findings
Summarise the findings and present them in a research report or presentation. Include visual aids to enhance the understanding of the results.

Survey Sample

1. On a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 represents ‘not important at all’ and 5 represents
   ‘extremely important’; How important is physical fitness and exercise to your overall sense of health and wellbeing?
   
   2. What does the term 'health' mean to you as a young person? Please provide a brief description or any specific aspects that come to mind.
   
   3. How would you rate the importance of mental and emotional wellbeing in your overall health? Please select one option: low importance, moderate importance or high importance.
   
   4. What role do relationships and social connections play in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and overall wellbeing as a young person?
   
   5. Explain the specific behaviours or habits that come to mind when someone is healthy. Outline up to 2-3 behaviours that you consider essential for maintaining good health.

Interviews

Interviews are a qualitative research method used to gather in-depth insights from participants through direct, structured or semi-structured conversations. They allow researchers to explore participants’ views, experiences and feelings on a particular topic in detail. 

Interviews can be conducted one-on-one or in groups and may vary in format from highly structured, with predetermined questions to unstructured or semi-structured, where questions evolve based on the participant's responses. 

An interview can be conducted in person, on the phone or online. Subjects can ask questions or clarify what is meant by a question before answering. Researcher’s can gauge body language, expression and tone when conducting interviews. 

10 Steps to Conducting Interviews

1. Define Your Purpose
   Clarify the research objectives and determine what insights are being aimed at from the interviews, such as understanding young people’s views on health. 

2. Select Interview Type
   Choose an interview format (structured, semi-structured or unstructured) based on the depth of information needed and the flexibility required. 
   
   3. Identify and RecruitParticipants
   Select a sample of participants who fit the criteria of your study. Reach out and obtain consent, providing an overview of the interview’s purpose and confidentiality assurances.
   
   4. Develop Interview Questions
   Create open-ended, unbiased questions that align with the research objectives, allowing for follow-up questions to explore participants’ responses in greater detail.
   
   5. Pilot Test the Interview
   Conduct a trial run with a small group to assess clarity, timing and flow of questions. Adjust as needed based on feedback.
   
   6. Schedule and Prepare
   Arrange interview times and locations (or online meeting links), ensuring participants are comfortable and aware of how the process will unfold.
   
   7. Conduct the Interview
   Start with a brief introduction, reiterate confidentiality and establish a comfortable atmosphere. Follow the question guide but remain flexible allowing the conversation to evolve naturally.
   
   8. Record and Take Notes
   With participants’ permission, record the interview for accuracy and take notes on key points, non-verbal cues or emotions expressed.
   
   9. Analyse Responses
   Review recordings and notes, identifying recurring themes, patterns or unique insights related to the research question.
   
   10. Report Findings
   Summarise and interpret the findings in a report, linking responses to your research objectives. Include anonymised quotes for depth and illustrative examples.

Interview Sample Questions

1. How would you describe being 'healthy' as a young person? What key elements define health for you?
   
   2. How do you prioritise physical fitness? Are there specific activities you do to maintain physical wellbeing?
   
   3. What role does mental and emotional wellbeing play in young people’s health? Describe some strategies you use to support your mental and emotional wellbeing.
   
   4. How do social connections impact your health? In what way do relationships with friends, family or community contribute to your wellbeing?
   
   5. What behaviours or habits do you think are essential for promoting health as a young person? Can you please provide examples and explain their importance.
   
   Focus Groups
   
   A focus group is a qualitative research method involving a small, diverse group of participants (usually 6-12) brought together to discuss a specific topic guided by a facilitator. This setting encourages open-ended discussion allowing researchers to explore participants' attitudes, perceptions, experiences and opinions in depth. The facilitator uses a semi-structured or structured set of questions to prompt conversation but allows flexibility for new ideas to emerge naturally.
   
   Focus groups are often recorded and analysed for recurring themes, providing valuable insights into complex social or health-related issues. They are particularly useful in understanding group dynamics and uncovering perspectives that may not surface in individual interviews or surveys. 
   
   During a focus group session, a trained moderator facilitates the discussion by asking open-ended questions and encouraging participants to express their thoughts, feelings and experiences related to the research topic. The interactions among participants often generate rich and in-depth data that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the topic and explore diverse viewpoints. To run a focus group researchers develop open-ended questions beforehand and adapt to the responses they obtain.
   
   Focus Group Sample Questions
2. What does 'health' mean to you as a young person? How would you define it and do you think this definition might vary across ages or backgrounds?
   
   2. What do you think shapes young people's views and attitudes towards health?
   Are there specific social or cultural factors that strongly influence these perspectives?
   
   3. How do you see the connection between physical and mental health in maintaining overall wellbeing? Could you share any personal or peer-related examples?
   
   4. How do you think social media affects young people’s understanding of health and wellbeing? Would you say it generally promotes a positive or negative view and what are some possible benefits or downsides?
   
   5. Have you noticed any differences in how health is viewed by younger versus older generations? What are some ways that generational or cultural views on health might be shifting?
   
   Case Study
   
   Case studies involve undertaking a detailed analysis of a situation (typically real-life) or subject/s. This research may include both quantitative or qualitative data. The purpose of case studies often involves solving a problem or issue through improved contextual understanding.
   
   For example, a case study may be undertaken to examine how a young person manages stress and the resulting implications on their overall health.
   
   Observation
   
   Observations are a qualitative research method involving the observation and recording of subject behaviour. The researcher may be a participant or non-participant during the research, however, should not interrupt natural processes. This research can provide more thorough information about a subject or situation that may not be gained through surveys or questionnaires.
   
   For example, an observation may take place in a school or university to examine the degree of mobile phone use amongst young people. This information may then be used to explore the impacts of technology use on communication and relationships.
   
   Literature Review
   
   A literature review is a summary of existing knowledge of a topic from a range of sources that can provide insight for new research. This allows for gaps in research to be identified and explored in greater depth, and comparisons made between research.
   
   For example, a literature review may include research undertaken about the impact of mental health on young people’s education and employment. A researcher may elect to explore the impact of anxiety more specifically to show relationships and gather more specific data.

Experiments

Experiments may be used in research to explore and test a research question or hypothesis. This allows a researcher to consider variables that may impact the research results and test these with a group of willing participants.

For example, a researcher may compare the impacts of social media use on the mental wellbeing of a young person by testing variables with a control group and an experimental group.

Determinants of health, including the broad features of society, environmental factors, socioeconomic characteristics, health behaviours and biomedical factors have a large impact on a person's meaning of health.

Broad Features of Society

Factors like culture, affluence, social cohesion, inclusion, political policies, media and language shape how young people view health. For instance, Australian youth may benefit from strong health education, affecting their understanding of holistic health. In contrast, those in other regions or countries with different access to health education might see health more narrowly or incorporate unique elements.

Environmental Factors

Natural and built environments, along with geographical location, play a significant role in defining health. Youth in remote areas, for example, might value social health highly due to their reliance on close-knit community ties, whereas those in urban settings may see physical and mental health as more prominent due to diverse access to services and resources.

Socioeconomic Characteristics

Elements like family income, education, and social status affect health perception by shaping access to quality resources. For example, a young person from an educated, financially stable background may understand health as a balanced, multi-dimensional concept. In contrast, someone with less access to education or resources may focus more on physical health.

Health Behaviours

Actions such as physical activity, diet, and preventive care impact young people's perception of health by emphasising personal responsibility and prevention. For example, a young person who regularly exercises and avoids harmful substances is likely to view health as something maintained through deliberate choices and actions.

Biomedical Factors

Biological characteristics, including genetic predispositions and health conditions influence young people’s views on health. A young person with a family history of a specific illness like cancer, may prioritise preventive health and education in their understanding of health, contrasting with those without similar backgrounds who may focus more broadly on other aspects of health.

Young people’s definitions of health reflect what they consider important to their health by considering various factors that influence their perceptions and priorities.

Physical Wellbeing: Many young people prioritise physical health by focusing on a balanced diet, regular exercise, good sleep and avoiding substances like drugs and alcohol. This focus is shaped by societal and media emphasis on physical fitness and appearance.

Mental and Emotional Wellbeing: There is growing recognition of mental health’s importance, with young people often prioritising stress management, coping skills and positive relationships. Awareness campaigns through organisations like Beyond Blue, R U OK and The Black Dog Institute have highlighted the need for mental health care.

Social Connections: Relationships with family, friends and peers are central to a young person's wellbeing supporting a sense of belonging and overall happiness. Many prioritise social activities and quality time, recognising these connections and impact on their health.

Environmental Awareness: Many young people value sustainability, seeing environmental health as part of personal health. They might focus on eco-friendly habits like recycling, reducing waste and minimising carbon footprints through their awareness of the broader effects of climate on wellbeing.

Digital Wellbeing: With technology’s role in daily life, young people are mindful of balancing screen time with offline activities. They recognise the effects of digital media on mental health and strive for habits that support a healthy digital presence.

When investigating young people’s meanings of health, it’s essential to address ethical considerations to protect participants' wellbeing, rights and dignity while upholding research integrity.

The acronym C.I.R.P. highlights key ethical considerations:

• Informed Consent
• Integrity
• Respect
• Privacy
  
  

Consent: Consent in research is the voluntary agreement of participants to partake in a study, given after they fully understand the study’s purpose, methods, potential risks, and benefits. This ethical principle ensures that participants are informed, autonomous, and free to choose their involvement without pressure or coercion. In a study on physical activity levels among teenagers researchers provide participants with a clear overview of the study’s goals, what is expected from them, potential risks (such as discussing personal health behaviours) and the option to withdraw at any time. 

Integrity: Integrity in research involves honesty, transparency, and adherence to ethical standards, such as accurate data reporting and avoiding fabrication or manipulation. For instance, if a researcher’s initial hypothesis doesn’t align with the findings, they must report the results truthfully, without altering data to fit a preferred outcome. To maintain integrity, researchers keep detailed records, disclose study limitations, cite sources accurately, and follow proper protocols for sharing final reports with participants, ensuring all aspects of the research are conducted ethically and truthfully.

Respect: Respect for participants involves treating them with dignity, autonomy, and fairness. This means obtaining informed consent, upholding confidentiality, and being sensitive to each participant’s age, culture and background. For example, when studying stress among students, a researcher should fully explain the study’s purpose, ensure participants know they can withdraw at any time, and avoid questions that may cause discomfort. Respectful practices include creating clear consent forms, prioritising participants’ emotional wellbeing, and constructing questions that are sensitive and non-intrusive.

Privacy: Privacy involves safeguarding participants' personal data by anonymising information and securing data storage to prevent unauthorised access. For example, in a study on social media habits researchers must ensure that usernames and any identifying details are removed from the dataset. Privacy is maintained by obtaining explicit consent for data usage, anonymising responses, and employing secure storage systems like password-protected databases, thus ensuring participants' identities and information remain protected.

Validity, reliability and credibility are essential in research to ensure findings are accurate, consistent and trustworthy. Reliability ensures consistent results across similar conditions, validity confirms that the study measures what it intends to and credibility reflects authentic participant perspectives.

Reliability

Reliability refers to the consistency and dependability of research results. A study is reliable if it produces similar outcomes when repeated under the same conditions. High reliability means that the measurement process is stable and free from random errors, allowing researchers to trust that their results are not due to chance. For example, in a study investigating young people’s meanings of health, reliability would mean that if the same questions were asked to a similar group of young people under the same conditions, their responses would yield similar results. To achieve reliability, researchers might use standardised questionnaires or interview protocols to minimise variation.

Validity

Validity refers to the accuracy of a study in measuring what it intends to measure. High validity ensures that the findings are relevant and applicable to the research question. For example, if a researcher aims to understand young people’s definitions of health, they would need to ask questions that cover various aspects of health such as physical, mental and social wellbeing. Using questions that align closely with the intended concepts ensures that the responses truly reflect young people’s perspectives on health, enhancing the validity of the study.

Credibility

Credibility establishes whether research findings represent plausible information drawn from the participants' original data and is a correct interpretation of the participants' original views. For example, a study on young people’s meanings of health credibility would involve capturing their true perspectives on health, including aspects they consider important.

7 Key Considerations to Promote Validity and Reliability while Ensuring Credibility

1. Research Design: Choose a design that suits the research question, using elements like control groups, randomisation and sampling to reduce bias.

2. Measurement Tools: Use validated tools or create well-structured instruments (e.g. survey questions) specific to the study.

3. Data Collection: Apply consistent data collection methods, standardising procedures and instructions to minimise variation.

4. Sampling Techniques: Utilise random sampling to reduce selection bias, ensuring the sample accurately represents the target population. 

5. Peer Review: Seek feedback from peers to catch potential errors and improve the quality and accuracy of your study.

6. Researcher Bias: Recognise and minimise personal biases, especially during analysis and reporting.

7. Transparent Reporting: Clearly document research methods, changes and findings so data can be evaluated. 

Organise Findings: Structure findings in a clear format with an introduction, literature review, methodology and results.

Link to Literature: Compare findings to previous studies or theories to contextualise and validate results.

Summarise Key Data: Compare primary and secondary data and draw conclusions from research findings.

Use Visual Aids: Integrate charts, graphs, tables and images to illustrate data. 

Explain Significance: Discuss the implications of the findings, showing how they relate to the research question or hypothesis.

Draw Logical Conclusions: Ensure conclusions flow naturally from the data, summarising how findings answer the research question.

Acknowledge Limitations: Note any constraints in the study, such as sample size or potential biases, to provide a balanced interpretation.

Propose Future Research: Suggest areas for further investigation based on gaps or questions that emerged from the findings.

Engage the Audience: Encouraging feedback to refine conclusions. 

A researcher can identify further research opportunities by examining gaps, limitations and emerging questions within their study area.

Key methods include:

• Reflecting on Findings: Note any unresolved aspects or unexpected results that suggest new research questions.  
• Reviewing Literature: Check recent studies to spot areas that need deeper exploration or validation.
• Engaging with Peers: Consult with colleagues or experts to gain fresh perspectives and identify overlooked aspects.
• Considering Practical Applications: Look at how findings could solve real-world problems, which may lead to applied research questions.
• Exploring Connections: Find links between their focus area and other fields to inspire innovative research directions.
• Evaluating Research Limitations: Recognise limitations or constraints in the current study that could be addressed in future research.