Question

Explain why researchers who are operating in theory-testing mode might not try using a random sample in their study. What validity are they prioritizing? What aspects of their research are they emphasizing (for now)?

Answer 1

Explain why researchers who are operating in theory-testing mode might not try using a random sample in their study.
The researchers who are operating in theory-testing mode might not try using a random sample in their study because their focus is on testing the theory itself. They do not focus on testing the truth or applicability in a specific population or target audience.

What validity are they prioritizing?
They prioritize internal validity. External validity is of little concern. Since external validity is based on how the sample is obtained, this is not prioritized. Their focus is on to what extent some association or causal effect claim supports the theory under investigation.

What aspects of their research are they emphasizing (for now)?
Their emphasis lies more on Association and Causal claims. These two claims are used to investigate the level of support for the theory under question.