Module 2.6

Question 1

Descriptive Theory

Answer 1

Identifies major events of a phenomenon
Does not explain why something happens
Involves observation in a natural setting
Common methods: concept analysis, case studies, surveys, phenomenology, grounded theory, ethnography, historical inquiry

Study aims to simply describe an event or process

Question 2

Explanatory Theory

Answer 2

Used for correlational studies
Specifies relationships
Measures dimensions or characteristics
Data gathered through observation or self reported (fixed choice questions, open ended questions, structured interviews)

Study focuses on explaining the correlation between the independent and dependent variable

Question 3

Predictive Theory

Answer 3

Used for experimental or quasi experimental studies
Makes predictions about relationships and outcomes
Involves manipulation of the phenomenon
REQUIRES QUANTIFIABLE DATA

Study aims to test a theory using experimental methods and quantitative data

Question 4

General Systems Theory

Answer 4

Developed with the intent to guide research in several disciplines that were observed to have significant similarities/parallels between them.

Multiple disciplines could focus on making sense of system characteristics and create a common framework that could be shared and applied to multiple situation disciplines.

Focus to study characteristics like the following:

• Wholeness (
• Hierarchy (a system or organization in which people or groups are ranked one above the other according to status or authority)
• Teleology (the explanation of phenomena in terms of the purpose they serve rather than of the cause by which they arise.)
• Entropy (lack of order or predictability; gradual decline into disorder)
• Equifinality (the property of allowing or having the same effect or result from different events)

Question 5

Jean Watson’s Theory of Care

Answer 5

Provides many useful concepts for the practice of nursing
TIes together many theories used in nursing education

Base on the assumption that caring consists of “carative” factors and can only be effectively demonstrated interpersonally.

Question 6

Orem’s Self Care Theory

Answer 6

Theory rests on the assumption that people are distinct individuals who should be self reliant and responsible for their own care and others in their family needing care.

Nursing is a form of action or interaction between two or more people

Theory cites that a person’s knowledge of a potential health problem is necessary to promote self care behaviors, which are learned within a social-cultural context.

Question 7

Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms

Answer 7

Theory stands on the premise that there are similarities in experiencing different symptoms among different groups and in different situations
Developed to help nurses be better prepared in symptom management
Helps nurses recognize the need to assess multiple aspects of symptoms, including characteristics of the symptoms themselves, underlying disease or cause, as well as quality of pain.

Question 8

Maslow’s Theory

Answer 8

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs:

1. Physiological needs - these are biological requirements for human survival, e.g. air, food, drink, shelter, clothing, warmth, sex, sleep.

If these needs are not satisfied the human body cannot function optimally. Maslow considered physiological needs the most important as all the other needs become secondary until these needs are met.

2. Safety needs - once an individual’s physiological needs are satisfied, the needs for security and safety become salient. People want to experience order, predictability and control in their lives. These needs can be fulfilled by the family and society (e.g. police, schools, business and medical care).

For example, emotional security, financial security (e.g. employment, social welfare), law and order, freedom from fear, social stability, property, health and wellbeing (e.g. safety against accidents and injury).

3. Love and belongingness needs - after physiological and safety needs have been fulfilled, the third level of human needs is social and involves feelings of belongingness. Belongingness, refers to a human emotional need for interpersonal relationships, affiliating, connectedness, and being part of a group.

Examples of belongingness needs include friendship, intimacy, trust, and acceptance, receiving and giving affection, and love.

4. Esteem needs are the fourth level in Maslow’s hierarchy and include self-worth, accomplishement and respect. Maslow classified esteem needs into two categories: (i) esteem for oneself (dignity, achievement, mastery, independence) and (ii) the desire for reputation or respect from others (e.g., status, prestige).

Maslow indicated that the need for respect or reputation is most important for children and adolescents and precedes real self-esteem or dignity.

Question 9

Health Promotion Model

Answer 9

Used as a guide to explore the biopsychosocial processes that motivate individuals to engage in behaviors directed towards health enhancement.

Often used a framework for research on predicting health lifestyles and behaviors.