Strategies for Theory Construction in Nursing, Pearson New International Edition, 5th edition

For all masters or doctoral courses on nursing theory or related to framework development for practice or research.

For beginning graduate students in nursing and related disciplines, this text offers the clearest, most useful introduction to methods of theory development. It places nursing theory development in context, with a rich historical view that traces the field from its from its mid-20th century beginnings through contemporary and emerging issues. Present-day coverage includes both domain- and population-focused theories designed to specifically address the needs of clients served by nurses. Important additions in this edition include short reflections and critical thinking projects, as well as a new chapter on using knowledge development and theory to inform practice.

For all masters or doctoral courses on nursing theory or related to framework development for practice or research.

For beginning graduate students in nursing and related disciplines, this text offers the clearest, most useful introduction to methods of theory development. It places nursing theory development in context, with a rich historical view that traces the field from its from its mid-20th century beginnings through contemporary and emerging issues. Present-day coverage includes both domain- and population-focused theories designed to specifically address the needs of clients served by nurses. Important additions in this edition include short reflections and critical thinking projects, as well as a new chapter on using knowledge development and theory to inform practice.

Hallmark Features

Clear descriptions of nine basic strategies for theory development strategies–including all of the field’s most significant derivation, synthesis, and analysis strategies

• Gives students a single authoritative source for all the modern theory development information and context they will need

Learner-oriented exercises–included in all nine chapters on theory strategies

• Helps learners actively engage content and master theory development skills
• Promotes critical thinking rather than settling for passive acceptance

Concise introductions to each section–orienting students to the key ideas they will learn, and how these ideas fit into the overall discipline of theory development

• Gives students the high-level context they need to succeed

New! Full chapter on using knowledge development and theory to inform practice

• Helps students successfully apply theory in real-world practice

• Gives students a quick-access source for explanations of specialized terms used in nursing theory development

• Helps students deepen their understanding of existing theories and how these may be tested

Updated! Tables showing how concept and theory derivation, theory synthesis, and concept analysis strategies have been utilized

• Connects students with even more detailed information about applying theory in practice

Updated! Increased use of tables, figures, and headings throughout

• Makes content more visually appealing and accessible to students

New! Covers integrative principles derived from philosophy of science, validity testing of instruments, and research methods

• Links theory testing with important ideas about philosophy of science, validity testing of instruments, and research methods

Updated! Reorganized to facilitate linking use of strategies across the levels of concepts, statements, and theories

• Helps students effectively integrate all aspects and levels of theory development

Updated! Table of contents expanded to include first-level heads

• Enables students to find content more quickly and efficiently