Examine the concepts that underpin these two theoretical perspectives, reflect on how they influence professional nursing practice

Examine the concepts that underpin these two theoretical perspectives, reflect on how they influence professional nursing practice

Variety is one of the distinctive features of nursing education. So, it is but natural that the wide reach and diversity inherent to the nursing domain should extend to nursing theories as well. There are some theories that are not part of the traditional foundation of the nursing domain, but are relevant to nursing in the sense that these theories are useful in informing and guiding practice. This week, we will examine two such theories, role theory and change theory. As we examine the concepts that underpin these two theoretical perspectives, reflect on how they influence professional nursing practice. This course gave you an opportunity to work on a group presentation, theory critique, and concept paper, which allowed you to analyze and evaluate nursing conceptualizations. Your group presentation helped you develop your skills in collaborative work, while you tried to understand the scientific nature of nursing conceptions. The theory critique exercise sharpened your analytical skills as you critically evaluated your chosen nursing theory and examined its relevance to research, practice, and education. Your concept paper furthered your philosophical enquiry and gave you a better understanding of the concepts that underlie your personal philosophy for professional nursing practice. This week, we will quickly sum up the concepts you have learned over the past four weeks and take a look at the future of nursing theories. This week introduced you to the theoretical perspectives of role theory and change theory. Here are the key points covered: Role theory and change theory are not nursing theories, but they have considerable relevance to nursing. Role theory focuses on how individuals will perform in a given role. Nursing role is a normative structure learned and internalized during the process of professional socialization. Role stress and role strain are two important role concepts. Role stress occurs as a result of unreasonable demands placed on a particular role. Role strain leads to feelings of frustration and anxiety and can impact work adversely. The primary sources for role strain in nursing are role conflict and role ambiguity. Role theory provides a framework for role negotiation, developing coping strategies, and working collaboratively in a mutually acceptable way. Change and change management are ubiquitous in organizations. Change theory provides insight into the process of change and change management. Some of the forces that initiate change in an organization include the relationship of the organization with its environment, growth during its life cycle, and its internal and external struggle for power. The big three model of change comprises three types of movement, three forms of change, and three action roles in the change process.