How Would You Define Person? Look At The Following Attribute ✓ Solved

How would you define person ? Look at the following attributes

Chapter 3: Philosophy of Nursing 2. How would you define person? Look at the following attributes given to a person: (1) the ability to think and conceptualize, (2) the capacity to interact with others, (3) the need for boundaries, and (4) the use of language (Doheny, Cook, & Stopper, 1997). Would you agree? What about Maslow’s description of humanness in terms of a hierarchy of needs with self-actualization at the top? Another possibility is that persons are the major focus of nursing. Do you see humans as good or evil? Follow the discussion questions participation and submission guidelines.

Follow the 3 x 3 rule: minimum three paragraphs per DQ, with a minimum of three sentences each paragraph. All answers or discussions comments submitted must be in APA format according to Publication Manual American Psychological Association (APA) (6th ed.) 2009 ISBN: Minimum of two references, not older than 2015.

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The concept of "person" within the context of nursing philosophy is multifaceted and continues to evolve as our understanding of human beings deepens. Nurses often consider the person in their care not only as a patient but as a whole individual—holistic, with complex needs and attributes. One fundamental approach to defining a person involves acknowledging their ability to think and conceptualize. This characteristic emphasizes the cognitive aspect of being a person, where thoughts and understanding play a crucial role in shaping individual identities and experiences. The ability to conceptualize enables patients to engage in discussions about their health and participate in decision-making processes that affect their care.

Secondly, the capacity to interact with others constitutes another essential attribute of personhood. Human beings are inherently social creatures, and relationships significantly influence both mental and physical health. Research has demonstrated that social support can enhance recovery from illnesses and improve overall well-being (Holt-Lunstad, Smith, & Layton, 2010). Furthermore, interactions contribute to a person's identity by shaping their beliefs, attitudes, and even their self-esteem. By viewing individuals as relational beings, nurses can foster environments that encourage open communication and the building of trust, which are vital for effective care delivery.

The need for boundaries further defines the complexity of personhood, as establishing personal limits is essential for healthy interpersonal relationships. Healthy boundaries protect individuals from exploitation and emotional harm, promoting self-respect and integrity (Cloud & Townsend, 2017). Additionally, the use of language represents a foundational attribute that distinguishes humans from other beings. Language enables communication and facilitates the expression of thoughts, emotions, and needs, which are critical in healthcare contexts. Effective communication between nurses and patients is integral to the provision of quality care, fostering understanding, empathy, and patient engagement.

In considering Maslow's hierarchy of needs, it becomes evident that this psychological framework offers profound insights into our understanding of humanness. At the base of Maslow’s pyramid are basic physiological needs, such as food, water, and shelter, which must be fulfilled before a person can pursue higher-level psychological and self-fulfillment needs (Maslow, 1943). The apex of the hierarchy is self-actualization, representing the realization of an individual’s potential and the pursuit of personal growth. This framework aligns tightly with nursing philosophy, as the fulfillment of basic needs is fundamental for patients' health and healing. Nurses play a crucial role in recognizing these needs and advocating for their met fulfillment to aid individuals in achieving their maximum potential.

When contemplating whether humans are inherently good or evil, the response tends to be more nuanced. Philosophers and psychologists have debated this topic extensively, leading to varying perceptions based on cultural and individual beliefs. From a nursing perspective, it may be more beneficial to view individuals through an optimistic lens that recognizes the potential for growth and healing (Barnard, 2012). This perspective encourages empathy, compassion, and understanding, which are vital for establishing therapeutic relationships. Ultimately, treating individuals as unique beings, with their own perspectives and experiences, aligns seamlessly with the core principles of nursing practice.

In conclusion, the concept of "person" is multi-dimensional and intricately tied to various attributes, significantly impacting nursing care. By understanding these attributes—cognitive abilities, social interactions, the need for boundaries, and language use—nurses can create more holistic, patient-centered approaches. Integrating Maslow’s hierarchy of needs into nursing philosophy enriches the understanding of patient experiences and promotes better health outcomes. Recognizing humans as fundamentally good can enhance care provision by fostering positive interactions. Thus, the nursing profession must continuously evaluate and reaffirm its philosophy concerning the definition of a person to provide quality care that addresses the totality of human experience.

References

• Barnard, A. (2012). The person in nursing: A relational perspective. Nursing Philosophy, 13(1), 58-68.
• Cloud, T., & Townsend, J. (2017). Boundaries: When to say yes, how to say no to take control of your life. Zondervan.
• Doheny, M., Cook, J., & Stopper, L. (1997). Nursing Theory: A Framework for Professional Practice. Boston: Jones & Bartlett Publishers.
• Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social relationships and mortality risk: A meta-analytic review. PLOS Medicine, 7(7), e1000316.
• Maslow, A. H. (1943). A theory of human motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370-396.