Unit IV: Exemplar Theories and Their Application in Nursing
Study Questions

1. In Chapter 5 Chinn & Kramer speak to the importance of the link between research and theory, citing both advantages and problems of theory-linked research. Research is linked to theory development through two general classes of research activities and their purposes: theory generation and theory validation. Briefly describe how the research processes behind these differ in relation to the clinical problem, research purpose, research problem, research hypotheses and research design.

2. In Chapter 6 Chinn & Kramer describe the deliberative application and validation process that nurses in practice can implement to further theory development. Refining conceptual meaning and validating theoretic relationships and outcomes in practice are part of this process.

• Review the four "practice-dependent activities" (p. 138) required in the process of refining conceptual meaning.
• Reflect on your own practice, present or past, or with your practicum family, and mentally apply one of the activities.
• Briefly describe in summary the outcome of the activity. Hint: your concept analysis exercise with your family may be fruitful ground for application of one of the activities and will also facilitate the final step of your family assessment activity.

08/13/2001

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