A purpose statement is a segment of the introductory portion of a study that summarizes the research’s role and hints on what the research is about and how it achieved the purpose. The purpose statement of the research calls for the introduction of measures to curb gun violence and implement intervention programs where necessary to control gun violence. The statement includes all the signaling words the research is about, that is, gun violence, gangs and the youth. The statement is clear that the research is qualitative due to the mention of a small sample and qualitative research techniques such as Poisson and logistic regression. The statement is framed in a manner that is consistent with the purpose of the research as it demonstrates intend …show more content…
However, the purpose statement is not very clear about the sampling techniques used and the ratios between the respondent categories. The statement also mentions the research site to be in middle schools in South East Lost Angeles, California. Variables used The use of the sample data in the research as well the regression models provides a pre-emptive analysis of the cases in Los Angeles. The distribution of the sample is ample to provide a proper representation of the entire scope of research. However, the use of a sample of predominantly Hispanic boys and girls is imminently circumstantial. This presents a significant challenge to the research since communities in Black, Native American and Asian-American communities may present different findings. Theory Identified The research demonstrates the confirmation of the Social Cognitive theory by Holt and Chapman. The theory can be summarized as follows ‘portions of a person’s knowledge can be acquired by directly observing the actions of other people and learning from them.’ Communal issues such as neighborhood gang presence, gun presence and cases of gang violence often affect the psychological response of children to gang violence (Decker, van Gemert & Pyrooz, 2009). In some cases, the perception of these issues can discourage these children from aggressive practices while in other cases; it can encourage them to join gangs where they feel like it is the