Conducting a nursing research study without a firm theoretical framework is like taking a road trip without a map. You may have a final destination in mind, with an idea of several stops that you would like to make on the way, but without a map you will be unlikely to meet the goals and milestones you set for your trip. Similarly, if you undertake a research study without using a theoretical framework as a guide, your study may lack direction and ultimately fail in providing scholarly, reliable results that inform evidence-based nursing practice. Selecting an appropriate theoretical framework is a crucial step that allows researchers to refine their questions, formulate hypotheses, identify target populations, and choose effective research techniques and designs.