QUESTION

There are a number of different approaches to writing an introduction for APA research papers. Examine any two of the research articles you are using for your final paper. What types of introductions do the authors use? Why do you think the authors chose to use this method? How might a different method have changed the way the paper reads? How will you approach writing an introduction for your final paper?

Blondé, J., Gianettoni, L., Gross, D., & Guilley, E. (2022). Hegemonic masculinity, sexism, homophobia, and perceived discrimination in traditionally male-dominated fields of study: A study in Swiss vocational upper-secondary schools. International Journal for Educational and Vocational Guidance, 1-22.

Gustafsson Sendén, M., Klysing, A., Lindqvist, A., & Renström, E. A. (2019). The (not so) changing man: Dynamic gender stereotypes in Sweden. Frontiers in Psychology, 10, 37.

ANSWER

“Exploring the Relationship Between Social Media Use and Depression Symptoms: A Study in a Diverse Adult Sample”

Introduction

In academic research papers, the introduction serves as a critical section that sets the tone, provides context, and outlines the research objectives. Two research articles, “Hegemonic masculinity, sexism, homophobia, and perceived discrimination in traditionally male-dominated fields of study: A study in Swiss vocational upper-secondary schools” by Blondé et al. (2022) and “The (not so) changing man: Dynamic gender stereotypes in Sweden” by Gustafsson Sendén et al. (2019), offer distinct approaches to their introductions, each tailored to their respective research focus and audience.

 Blondé et al. (2022) – Problem-Oriented Introduction

The authors of “Hegemonic masculinity, sexism, homophobia, and perceived discrimination in traditionally male-dominated fields of study” adopt a problem-oriented introduction. They begin by highlighting the prevalence of traditionally male-dominated fields of study in Swiss vocational upper-secondary schools and the issues related to hegemonic masculinity, sexism, homophobia, and perceived discrimination within these settings. This introduction establishes the significance and relevance of their research, emphasizing the social and educational implications of their study.

Reasoning behind the Approach

The problem-oriented introduction effectively engages the reader by immediately addressing a compelling issue within the context of education and vocational training. By presenting the research problem upfront, the authors capture the reader’s attention and convey the study’s importance, encouraging readers to continue exploring the paper.

Gustafsson Sendén et al. (2019) – Literature Review Introduction

In their article “The (not so) changing man: Dynamic gender stereotypes in Sweden,” the authors utilize a literature review introduction. They begin by summarizing previous research on gender stereotypes, emphasizing the dynamic nature of these stereotypes in Sweden. This approach highlights the existing body of knowledge on the subject, leading to the rationale for their study.

Reasoning behind the Approach

The literature review introduction provides a comprehensive overview of the existing research landscape, showing the gaps in knowledge and the need for further investigation. By situating their study within the context of previous work, the authors showcase the novelty of their research, presenting their contribution to the field as a natural progression from previous studies.

Potential Impact of Different Approach

If Blondé et al. (2022) had chosen a literature review introduction instead, the emphasis on problem-oriented context may have been diminished. While the background context is still crucial, the direct focus on the problem would not have been as evident. On the other hand, if Gustafsson Sendén et al. (2019) had adopted a problem-oriented introduction, the reader might not have gained a clear understanding of the existing research and how their study builds upon it.

Approach to Writing the Introduction in My Final Paper

For my final paper, I will approach writing the introduction by providing a clear and concise overview of the research topic, situating it within the context of existing literature, and highlighting the significance of the study. I will use a combination of problem-oriented and literature review introductions, drawing attention to the research problem while showcasing its relevance and novelty in relation to previous work. My goal is to engage the readers from the beginning, fostering their interest in the study’s objectives and findings.