Q: What is the difference between problem situation and research problem?

Problem situation is an explanation in simple words of the circumstances in which a problem occurs. It is a "complex set of relationships and conflicts" that made you think about the problem in the first place. On the other hand, defining a research problem is a more scientific approach towards the problem situation. A research problem is an area of concern which you will address through your research.

Let us understand this with the help of an example.

A problem situation could be as follows: Noise pollution from vehicular traffic is affecting the elderly and the sick, especially in hospitals. Patients are unable to take proper rest due to the constant noise arising from traffic on the nearby roads.

Accordingly, the research problem could be: Ways to control traffic in the areas near hospitals to reduce noise pollution.

Related reading:

• The basics of writing a statement of the problem for your research proposal [Downloadable template]
• How to write a statement of problem for your research proposal