Chapter Questions
Why were these theorists grouped together in this chapter?
Compare and contrast how "client" was conceptualized by each of the five theorists presented in this chapter. What are some common propositions, and in what ways do they differ drastically?
Which, if any, of these definitions and views of client persist in contemporary nursing practice?
Compare and contrast the outcomes in each theory.
What are some paradigmatic origins shared by the five theorists discussed in this chapter and which appear to be contradictory?
Critics differ on how Martha Rogers' theory has influenced progress in the discipline of nursing. A group of critics considers her theory to completely miss the substance and goals of nursing. Others believe that she was a theorist who was ahead of her time. Where do you stand on your views of her theory? Be specific, support your analysis, and indicate why.
How does Rogers define the concepts of energy and interaction? Develop research questions that could advance knowledge about these two concepts.
Identify one research instrument that needs development to test one vital proposition in each theory.
Make a case for a different approach to categorizing the five theorists discussed in this chapter. Provide the rationale for the proposed categorization.
Select one of the theorists and develop a research project to test two or three propositions that could extend knowledge in your field of practice. In what ways would the results of the selected research questions extend the theory?
Identify three ways by which any of the theories may extend nursing knowledge in your field.
Rogers rejected reductionism, causality, the separation of person and environment, and what else? What scientific value did she embrace and in what ways did these values inform her theory? Compare and contrast her approach with Johnson's.
How would Rogers' theory explain hyperactivity, type A behavior, attention deficit hyperactivity, and sleep disorders? What research propositions may help support or refute her possible explanation?
Describe a program of research within your field of interest that is informed by any one of the theories.
Identify two middle-range theories that evolved from Rogers' and Roy's theories. Critically assess their congruence with explicit and implicit assumptions in Rogers' theory.