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The relationship between theories and hypotheses can be illustrated using an 'if-then' logical structure derived from Zajonc's drive theory. For example, a researcher might state: 'If drive theory is correct, then cockroaches should run through a straight runway faster, and a branching runway more slowly, when other cockroaches are present.' This specific prediction about cockroach behavior under observation demonstrates how an observable hypothesis is logically deduced from a broader theoretical framework.

Example of an 'If-Then' Hypothesis: Cockroach Study

In the cockroach study example, the 'if-then' hypothesis predicted that cockroaches would run through a straight runway faster, and a branching runway more slowly, when other cockroaches were present.

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