Breast Cancer and Theory Term Paper

Trancedence Theory

Middle Range Theory of Self Transcendence

There are several nursing-related theories and these have the function of explaining, evaluating and applying the field in order to enhance quality of treatment. These theories are divided into three classes; low rang theories, middle age theories and grand theories. All these classes each have their specialized roles towards the improvement of the nursing practice dependent on the various treatment types they are concerned with. Middle range theories possess a number of well-defined models which are applied for experimental testing on a concept in order to determine if it is useful and effective in the nursing profession. Several active forms of middle range theories exists and they include those which are concerned with self-efficiency, empathy, human interactions, carrying out of nursing duties, reasoned action, adverse symptoms, self-transcendence etc. Generally, the benefits of these theories are evident when nursing challenges, especially those concerned with the susceptible population, are being tackled. Its comprehensive nature allows it to be able to be applied on a large variety of patients and on different situations. Some of the standout features the middle range theory possesses are its lack of complexity, its specificity and focus on a smaller collection on concepts which reduces any form of testing difficulties. Despite all these, this large collection of theories is often criticized due to its similarity and therefore, every single one of them might not be completely useful. Regardless, their specific application means they are indispensable and therefore, its effectiveness should not be underestimated as it applies experimental results which are easily used by the nurse to understand the patient better.

There are three subclasses of middle range theory. They include; predictive theories, descriptive theories and explanatory theories. The mostly used theories are the descriptive ones and they refer to an elaboration of any concept at any given time via the enumeration of its similar features which are identified via a thorough analysis of occurrences, circumstances and groups of people. Using the tool of research, one can map out a descriptive model as well as a mode of classification using one of qualitative or quantitative methods. Let's take the Peplau's theory of interpersonal relation as an example. For experimental theories, the concepts evaluated are two and above and this is a clear indicator of the connecting existing between concepts. The evaluation of experimental middle range theories are done via a correlational study which is in most cases, quantitative (Masters, 2012). The Watson's theory of human caring is a good instance of this. Finally, apart from the explanatory effect of a predictive theory, it also helps paint a picture of the existing connection between concepts and their effects. A predictive theory could only concern itself with one concept or could work with more. Specifically, this theory is focused on increasing the knowledge available on the topic of change causality. In order to do this, experimental studies are carried out, most of them quantitative. A good instance is the discussion-based nursing procedure which Orlando developed. It is without any doubt that the self-transcendence theory is an important component of the descriptive theories.

A notable member of the middle range theories is the theory of transcendence. It was conceptualized by Pamela Reed who added a universal correlation of the connecting existing between humans and their environment to the concept. The basic beliefs of the theory of transcendence is building of relationships as well as active exceeding of personally set boundaries due to health problems, advancement in age, losses, potential illnesses and the inherent susceptibility to death (Smith & Lierher, 2008). This theory has its basis on an initial model which holds the belief that humans continually develop all through their lives and they go through a large variety of changes with the biggest change of all being death which is inescapable. Via strong relationships, the self-transcendence theories, which fosters a connection between the nurse and the patient, has an objective of developing personal capability to understand and accept the constants of life and via this, enhance one well-being and development. According to Reed (2008), self-transcendence refers to the movement from initially held opinions to personally developed beliefs which appear much more sensible to a person than the world. Thus, humans enjoy health due to their opinions about what it means and the conditions it refers to (Masters, 2012). These opinions do not materialize out of thin air but instead they are caused by the environment, sex, life experiences and age. Therefore, the self-transcendence theory has a remedial effect if a person is in tune with him or herself.

A major argument put forward by self-transcendence theories is the liveliness present in an environment or in a relationship. It talks about how the environment could be a huge influence on healthy lifestyles. When a person is face-to-face with common life problems such as a misunderstanding, proper knowledge of how to manage this could greatly enhance his/her quality of life because misunderstandings will always happen. According to Reed's theory, applying one's personal beliefs to the environment and an internal movement towards higher values, aspirations and opinions combined with a fusion of past events, could help one reach the future faster (McEwen…