*3.2. CDA Is Strongly Based in Theory*

The second essential principle of effective CDA research in population public health is that CDA is theoretically grounded. CDA research requires the application of theory, typically social theory, which describes the structures and functions of society. In addition, CDA researchers must be able to adapt their theoretical claims to the tools and methods of analysis they use. Wodak and Meyer identified several key theoretical influences to consider when conducting CDA. Due to their relevance to PPH research objectives, we focus on three theoretical influences: (a) general social theories; (b) micro-sociological theories; and (c) socio-psychological theories [6].
