Which among the following principles is accepted as being true based on logic or custom without proof?

Appeared in: AIIMS Raipur lecturer 2021

Explanation

An assumption is a statement or principle that is accepted as true without requiring proof or verification.
It serves as a foundational starting point for an argument, research study, or theory.
Assumptions are often based on shared beliefs, logic, or customs within a particular field or society.

Option B: A construct is an abstract concept or idea (like 'anxiety' or 'intelligence') created for research purposes; it is something to be defined and measured, not a principle accepted as true without proof.
Option C: A theory is a well-substantiated explanation for phenomena that is built upon evidence and is subject to testing and verification. It is the opposite of a principle accepted without proof.
Option D: This option is incorrect because 'Assumption' is the precise term for a principle accepted as true without proof.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definitions of Foundational Research Concepts as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding research assumptions is crucial for nurses to critically appraise evidence-based practice guidelines and research articles.
When reading a study, a nurse must identify the author's assumptions to evaluate the validity and applicability of the findings to their clinical practice.
What if? - If a study assumes all patients have a high level of health literacy, its conclusions about a complex self-management intervention might not apply to a nurse's patient population with low health literacy, requiring the nurse to adapt the intervention.

How to Approach the Question

Analyze the question stem to identify the key definition being asked for: 'a principle... accepted as true... without proof'.
Evaluate each option against this definition.
Recall the definition of 'Assumption': a belief taken for granted. This directly matches the question's description.
Differentiate this from 'Construct' (an abstract idea for study, e.g., pain, quality of life) and 'Theory' (a tested explanation of phenomena).
Conclude that 'Assumption' is the only term that fits the definition of being accepted as true without proof, making it the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 NursingResearch Suresh Sharma 5e Part 1 p. 105-107

E6 NursingResearch Sukhpal Kaur p. 116-118

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Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.