The Method of Multiple Hypotheses

The field of family studies would be enhanced by more systematic use of the method of multiple hypotheses. Multiple interpretations of family phenomena need to be considered routinely. Conceptual hypotheses should more frequently be designed to disconfirm theoretical expectations or to pit competing explanations against one another. Theories need to be bolder, particularly in the sense that they should aim to make counterintuitive and more precise predictions. This article elaborates such a view and relates it to philosophy of science (especially Popper and Kuhn), to current practice in family studies, to factors that inhibit attempts to disconfirm existing interpretations, and to implications for research and for theory development in family studies.

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