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Learning Objective 1: 1. The learner will be able to identify an analytical scheme for analysis of theory suitable to guide a PhD student’s research.
Learning Objective 2: 2. The learner will be able to evaluate a theory as it pertains to health disparities research.
The purpose of this presentation is to describe an analysis of four theories using theory analysis by Walker and Avant and Reynolds.
Background/Significance
Nursing theory is an important component of scientific inquiry for the development of knowledge. A theory provides a roadmap for studying problems, identifying determinants and consequences of risk factors, proposing appropriate researchable hypotheses, developing appropriate interventions, and evaluating outcomes. Scientific theory explains why things happen and gives the researcher a sense of understanding about a phenomenon. However there is little attention given to using a well-established theory analysis approach to identify an appropriate theory suitable to guide research especially in the area of health disparities. Too often students pick a common, well-used theory and attempt to fit this theory into their research without taking into account if the theory is culturally appropriate for participants.
Conceptual Framework
The six-step theory analysis by Walker and Avant and Reynolds Theory Construction models were adapted to examine four selected theories: Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), Ashing-Giwa’s Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL), Critical Race Theory, and Sojourner’s Syndrome.
Method
Each theory was examined with the following steps: identify origins, main concepts, operational definitions, examine meaning, analyze logical adequacy, determine usefulness, determine generalizability and parsimony, and determine testability.
Results
Results of this presentation were that SCT and Self-Efficacy are overused and do not explain aspects of ethnically diverse populations well. Ashing-Giwa’s HRQoL contextual theory is an example of a framework incorporating cultural and social-ecological factors. Critical Race Theory and Sojourner’s Syndrome are not theories per se, but rather structures that researchers should examine before working with diverse populations.
Conclusions
Conclusions of this study include that students should use a systematic process when identifying a theory that is suitable for their studies. Not all theories are appropriate with research that includes culturally diverse participants.