Caring Theory
Running head: NURSING AS CARING 1
Boykin and Schoenhofer: Theory of Nursing as Caring
NURSING AS CARING 2
Introduction
The theory of Nursing as Caring was developed by Anne Boykin and Sarvina Schoenhofer. In the late 1980’s, the two were involved in research involving elements of caring and the practical implications of caring elements when they discovered there was little to no research or literature in this area. Caring and its varying definitions made it difficult to define in research terms. What caring means, how it is demonstrated, how it is measured, and how it is received are complex multi-dimensional concepts. Caring is the central and unifying focus of the nursing profession (Welch & Leininger, 2002). Through their work, Boykin and Schoenhofer created a grand nursing theory that is intended to be used as a framework to guide practice at all levels of nursing.
Both women have similar backgrounds. They are from large families. Boykin from Wisconsin was the eldest of six, and Schoenhofer from Kansas was one of nine children. Both theorists have credited their close knit families and small town upbringings as significant determinants in their overall personhood and character development. Both served in various academic positions throughout their careers. Together and individually they have published books, articles, and research projects surrounding the Nursing as Caring theory.
Analysis
The Nursing as Caring theory is designed around six key assumptions:
1. Persons are caring by virtue of their humanness.
2. Persons live their caring moment to moment.
3. Persons are whole or complete in the moment.
4. Personhood is living life grounded in caring.
NURSING AS CARING 3
5. Personhood is enhanced through participating in nurturing relationships with caring others.
6.
Boykin and Schoenhofer: Theory of Nursing as Caring
NURSING AS CARING 2
Introduction
The theory of Nursing as Caring was developed by Anne Boykin and Sarvina Schoenhofer. In the late 1980’s, the two were involved in research involving elements of caring and the practical implications of caring elements when they discovered there was little to no research or literature in this area. Caring and its varying definitions made it difficult to define in research terms. What caring means, how it is demonstrated, how it is measured, and how it is received are complex multi-dimensional concepts. Caring is the central and unifying focus of the nursing profession (Welch & Leininger, 2002). Through their work, Boykin and Schoenhofer created a grand nursing theory that is intended to be used as a framework to guide practice at all levels of nursing.
Both women have similar backgrounds. They are from large families. Boykin from Wisconsin was the eldest of six, and Schoenhofer from Kansas was one of nine children. Both theorists have credited their close knit families and small town upbringings as significant determinants in their overall personhood and character development. Both served in various academic positions throughout their careers. Together and individually they have published books, articles, and research projects surrounding the Nursing as Caring theory.
Analysis
The Nursing as Caring theory is designed around six key assumptions:
1. Persons are caring by virtue of their humanness.
2. Persons live their caring moment to moment.
3. Persons are whole or complete in the moment.
4. Personhood is living life grounded in caring.
NURSING AS CARING 3
5. Personhood is enhanced through participating in nurturing relationships with caring others.
6.
References: Boykin A., & Schoenhofer S. O. (1993). Nursing as caring: A model for transforming practice. New York: National League of Nursing Publications. Boykin A., & Schoenhofer S.O. (2001). The role of nursing leadership in creating caring environments in health care delivery systems Boykin, A., & winland-Brown, J. (1995). The dark side of caring: Challenges of caregiving. Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 21(5), 13-18 Brunton B., & Beaman M. (2000). Nurse practitioners’ perceptions of their caring behaviors. Journal of American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Duffy, Joanne R. (2009). Quality care in nursing: applying theory to clinical practice, education, and leadership Luana (2010). Boca Hospital presents excellence awards as part of National Nurses Week. The Boca Raton Tribune, May 14, 2010. Martin SR. Caring advanced nursing practice. Nurse Practitioner. 1995; 16-23. Schoenhofer, S. O., & Boykin, A. (1993). The value of caring experienced in nursing. International Journal for Human Caring, 2(4), 9-15.