Theoretical Perspective, Term Paper Example

Which theoretical perspective, that guides the nursing process with assessment of the family, do you find to be the most helpful and effective? Why is this theory more appealing to you than the others?

The theoretical perspective outlined in ‘family stress theory’ espoused by McCubbin and McCubbin (1989) fascinates me as a very interesting tool for guiding the nursing process through a family assessment intervention. While other contemporary theories focus on finding dysfunctions within the structure including illnesses these theorists emphasized that family stress theory goes beyond this dimension of human existence into support, enhancing family strengths, assisting families in maintaining linkages with their communities; arriving at a realistic appraisal of what is the best “fit” for them in their particular situation…Through these efforts nurses can assist families in the process of adaptation’ ( McCumin,1989, p. 6).

When comparing this assumption with systems theory, for example, this theory merely assesses how the family system/institution functions or dysfunctions. No considerations regarding evaluating ways in which to assist the family are applied. In my opinion family assessment theoretical models must provide a framework of intervention while assessment is being conducted. It must ask profoundly why this assessment is necessary? (Edelman & Mandle, 2010); ‘nurses can assist families in the process of adaptation’ (McCubbin, 1989, p. 6).

With reference to the nursing process theoretical model as it pertains to assessment, diagnosis, planning, intervention and evaluation; intervention is long past the assessment phase. McCubbin and McCubbin (1989) contend that intervention insidiously must be contained in the family assessment process since some situations cannot wait for diagnosis neither planning before intervention. Critical thinking skills must emerge immediately to make immediate decisions

Hence, the foregoing explanations offer reasons for this theory being more appealing to me than the others. Domestic violence has emerged into a public health problem family stress theory assumptions are very valuable in resolving this dysfunction when a nurse is summoned for an assessment. It would mean an intervention as well.

References

Edelman, C.L., Mandle, C.L. (2010). Health Promotion throughout the Life Span. St. Louis, MO; Mosby.

Mc Cubbin, M.A. (1993). Family stress theory and the development of nursing knowledge about family adaptation. New Bury Park: Sage Publications.