Hypothesis of the Study

A hypothesis is a tentative prediction about the relationship between two or more variables in a
population under study (Polit, 2007). It translates a research question into a population into a prediction
of expected outcomes. It is commonly used in an experimental type of research.

Kinds of Hypotheses

1. Simple hypothesis – a hypothesis formulated when predicting relationship between an

independent variable and a dependent variable.

Example:
a. The nature of teachers is related to the nature of the students.

2. Complex hypothesis – a hypothesis formulated when predicting relationships of two or more

independent variable or two or more dependent variables.

Example:
a. There is no significant relationship among the profile, classroom leadership, management skills,
and the performance of Sunday school teachers.

3. Directional hypothesis – a hypothesis that specifies not only the existence but also the expected
direction of the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

Example:
a. Lower levels of exercise are associated with greater weight retention than higher levels.

4. Non-directional hypothesis – a hypothesis that does not stipulate the direction of the
relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

Example:
a. Women with different levels of exercise postpartum differ with regard to weight retention.

5. Null hypothesis – a hypothesis formulated for the purpose of statistical analysis. This kind of
hypothesis is always expressed as a negative statement. It is subjected to testing in which the
decision is to either accept or reject it.

Example:
a. There is no significant relationship between the reasons for using alternative medicine and the
level of comfort for the patients.

6. Research hypothesis – a hypothesis which states the actual expected relationships between
variables. It is always expressed affirmatively and is called substantive or scientific hypotheses.
All the aforementioned examples of hypotheses can be categorized as such if they express the
expected relationships of variables.
Assumption of the Study

The study assumptions are propositions taken to be true based upon the presupposition without
preponderance of the facts. These propositions often refer to the different variables or sub-variables
being studied.

ASSUMPTIONS OF THE STUDY Example 1 (Ancero et al., 2010)

Thesis Title: The Relationship between Psychosocial Health Effects of Stress and the Coping
Mechanisms of Nursing Student Mothers

The following assumptions are enumerated by the researchers:

1. Disorders can be acquired from abnormal stress response.
2. Different sources of stress can be managed through healthy way of response.