JDJ Sept 10 5:49pm

Theories provide the foundation and structure through which research problems can be examined. In PhD research, an existing theory can be tested within a new population or environment, or extended in a novel way to further explain an identified problem (Walden University, 2026). The components and assumptions of the selected theory also inform the factors or constructs examined within qualitative research, allowing the findings to contribute to existing knowledge and potentially bridge the gap between theory and practice (Walden University, 2026). The bounded rationality theory is based on the premise that decision-making must be assessed in consideration of the limitations present in both access to information and functional capability (Simon, 1955). The theory highlights that the information-gathering process is not without cost (time, resources, cognitive capacity, etc.), which forces the determination of a point of sufficiency at which further information will not be gathered (Simon, 1955). A recent review further explains that the theory accounts for both limitations regarding accessibility of information and cognitive capacity (Giarlotta & Petralia, 2024). Because perfect decision-making would require the assessment of every possible option, consequence, and probability of consequence, decisions made are bound by the alternative options consciously recognized, understood, and considered (Giarlotta & Petralia, 2024). Although the “bounded rationality” theory was founded within the field of economics, it has proven to be extremely relevant within the field of forensic psychology as well, especially with regard to investigative decision-making. While highlighting the need for further research concerning decision-making in forensic science, Curley et al. (2020) identify bounded rationality as an established and applicable framework. Similarly, Alfandari (2017) applies bounded rationality to decision-making within child protection, where practitioners are required to make decisions under complex conditions characterized by uncertainty and ambiguity. Bounded rationality has also been applied to prosecutorial decision-making, with findings that prosecutorial outcomes were influenced by factors beyond the circumstances of the case itself (Nolasco and Chi-Fang, 2024). Together, these applications demonstrate the relevance of bounded rationality for examining how limitations and external influences affect decision-making across multiple areas of forensic psychology. Respond to at least two of your peers. When responding: Compare and contrast the theory you selected with a different one posted by a peer. Be sure to respond to your peers’ posts in a substantive way and respond to all Instructor queries. You are encouraged to engage in this Discussion early and often.