Where Did Theory Come From? The Purpose Of This Assignment I ✓ Solved
Where Did Theory Come From The purpose of this Assignment is
Explore how a theorist explicates his or her philosophy and thoughts behind a theoretical field. In nursing, there are numerous theorists and theories that have developed over time, enriched by research and dialogue. In this assignment, you will explore your chosen nurse theorist's creation of a theory by immersing yourself in their writings from the earliest to the most current literature.
Writing in the voice of the theorist, create the theory through the following four stages:
1. Theorizing: Identify the concepts of what nursing is and is not. Question guiding concepts in nursing practice and explore your role. Ask yourself where you fit in nursing and the future direction of the profession. Recognize the need for a theory.
2. Syntax Development: Define the terms integral to your theory. Observe changes in definitions over time, such as Jean Watson’s evolution of the term “caring” to “caritas,” illustrating growth through research.
3. Theory Testing: Investigate the phenomena that the theory explains through research. Refine definitions and consider the theory's applicability in practice. Determine how your theory may be utilized by other researchers, such as graduate nursing students.
4. Evaluation: Foster philosophical debate over the application of concepts through evidence-based practice in nursing care.
Your paper must detail how you developed your theory through these four stages. Aim for a length of 3 to 5 pages (excluding title and reference pages) and include a minimum of five sources to support your work. Ensure adherence to Standard English conventions, logical organization, insightful content, and APA 6th Edition formatting.
Paper For Above Instructions
The development of nursing theory is a meticulous process that requires deep introspection and continuous engagement with evolving paradigms within the discipline. As a nurse theorist, I embarked on a journey to articulate my philosophy and theoretical framework through four distinct stages: theorizing, syntax development, theory testing, and evaluation. Each phase has been instrumental in shaping the principles that define my contribution to the nursing field.
Theorizing: Understanding Nursing
In the initial stage of theorizing, my exploration began with a fundamental inquiry into the essence of nursing. What does it mean to be a nurse in today's world? The process involved questioning established concepts and uncovering what nursing is and is not. Reflecting upon my practice led me to recognize that nursing transcends mere technical skills; it embodies a holistic approach to patient care, grounded in compassion, respect, and an understanding of human dignity. It became clear to me that there exists a guiding principle—a foundational theory—capable of unifying diverse practices and philosophies within nursing. This realization piqued my curiosity: How could such a theory address both current challenges and future directions in nursing?
Syntax Development: Defining Key Terms
The second stage involved rigorous syntax development, where I sought to define the crucial terms of my theory. Language is inherently dynamic, especially in the context of healthcare. For instance, I drew inspiration from Jean Watson's evolution of the term “caring” into “caritas.” This transformation highlights the significance of terminology in reflecting philosophical growth and scholarly maturation. In my theory, I defined key terms such as “patient-centered care,” “compassionate practice,” and “holistic assessment.” These definitions not only establish clarity within the theoretical framework but also contribute to a wider discourse on nursing practice.
Theory Testing: Validating Through Research
Moving on to the theory testing stage, I engaged with various research methodologies to validate my theoretical constructs. This phase is critical as it assesses the applicability of the theory in real-world settings. Through quantitative studies, qualitative interviews, and mixed-methods research, I gathered data that illuminated the phenomena underlying my theory. For example, I discovered that the implementation of patient-centered care significantly enhanced patient satisfaction and outcomes, thereby reinforcing the importance of my theoretical framework. Additionally, graduate nursing students began utilizing the tools derived from my theory in their practice, indicating broader acceptance and relevance within the academic community.
Evaluation: Engaging in Philosophical Debate
The final stage, evaluation, has prompted robust philosophical debates about my theory's practical application. Engaging with colleagues and researchers during symposiums and conferences has fostered a rich dialogue regarding evidence-based applications in nursing practice. Evaluation is not merely about assessing outcomes; it encompasses ongoing discussions about ethical considerations, cultural competence, and the intricate nature of human interactions in nursing. These debates contribute to the continuous evolution of my theory, as I remain open to feedback and new insights that challenge and refine my perspectives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the journey of developing my nursing theory through the stages of theorizing, syntax development, theory testing, and evaluation has been transformative. This process not only shaped my understanding of nursing but also emphasized the necessity of a theoretical foundation that accommodates the complexity of patient care. As I continue to refine and expand upon my theory, I recognize the importance of nurturing dialogue with fellow practitioners and scholars to ensure that our collective perspectives drive the future of nursing.
References
- Fawcett, J. (2012). The sins of nursing theory: A challenge to the nursing profession. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 44(3), 212-219.
- George, J. (2011). Nursing Theories: The base for professional nursing practice. Pearson Higher Ed.
- McEwen, M., & Wills, E. M. (2017). Theoretical Basis for Nursing. Wolters Kluwer Health.
- Watson, J. (2012). Nursing: The philosophy and science of caring. University Press of Colorado.
- Parker, M. (2010). Nursing theory: A new perspective. Nursing Science Quarterly, 23(1), 56-63.
- Nursing and Midwifery Council. (2018). The Code: Professional standards of practice and behavior for nurses, midwives and nursing associates. London: NMC.
- Levine, M. (2017). The meaning and significance of care in nursing. Nursing Forum, 52(1), 12-23.
- Chinn, P. L., & Kramer, M. K. (2014). Integrated Knowledge Development in Nursing. Elsevier Health Sciences.
- Rowan, M. (2015). The evolving landscape of nursing theory. Nursing Outlook, 63(4), 480-486.
- Benner, P. (1984). From Novice to Expert: Excellence and Power in Clinical Nursing Practice. Prentice Hall.