An ISPP dissertation typically involves a sequence of sections that are built on each other. Sections are generally organized in the following order, though students should discuss the exact structure of their dissertation with their chair, as dissertations vary according to factors like methodology. Please see the APA manual (7 th Edition) for proper formatting; there are additional formatting details and a template included in the “Formatting of the Dissertation” section of this manual
Important: Students may not use generative AI tools to aid with writing or any aspect of the dissertation, unless explicitly approved by the chair.
Title Page
• • • • •
Table of Contents Dedication- optional
Acknowledgement- optional
Abstract
• Chapter 1: Introduction & Literature Review (approximately 15-30 pp.) ▪ Brief Introduction and Rationale for the Study (1-3 pp.) • Background • Statement of the Problem •
Scope of the Problem (e.g., prevalence rates and/or the costs to the individual and society that justify the inquiry) • Statement of Research Question
▪
Review of Literature •
Summary of extant literature identifying the gap in the literature that the study addresses ▪ Statement of Research Question and Hypotheses (if appropriate to the research design) • Theoretical/Conceptual Framework • Definitions of Key Terms
• Chapter 2: Method (approximately 5-10 pp.) o Research Design o Population and Sample ▪ Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria ▪ Sample Size and Rationale ▪
Demographics of Sample (for final dissertation)
Measures ▪
o
For each measure (if applicable), include authors, psychometric properties, response format, scoring, and interpretation, as well as sample items. Students should also comment on whether or not the measure has been validated on or used with the population that is the focus of their study. ▪ If students are using their own measure (e.g., an interview), describe it and include it as an appendix. o Procedures ▪ Recruitment (including incentives, if applicable) ▪ If relevant to their methodology, students should include the formation of groups and the specific experimental manipulations. Describe randomization, counter balancing, and other control features in the design. ▪ Informed Consent ▪ Data Collection • Students should include the sequence of procedures for their study, from
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