Posted: May 9th, 2025

Humanist Nursing Theory: concepts of humanistic theory

The humanist nursing theory focuses on the human being as a whole. This nursing theory views the human being as more than just a sum of parts, but rather as a complex individual with unique needs and experiences. The humanist nursing theory also emphasizes the importance of relationships with others and the environment. It can help nurses understand and meet the needs of their patients.

The world health organization (WHO) states that expert palliative care and end-of-life care are a priority for global healthcare. (Wu, Volker 2011)

Humanistic nursing theory in nursing education

The importance of the humanistic nursing theory in nursing education is widely recognized. Humanistic nursing theory provides the framework for nurses to view patients as complex individuals with unique needs and experiences. This type of nursing theory can help nurses understand and meet the needs of their patients. 

Understanding the role of a nurse in building better relationships ensures quality care for patients. It also fosters better emotional well-being in patients and promotes healing. 

The theory views the human being as more than just a sum of parts, but rather as a complex individual with unique needs and experiences. A nurse learns to respect a patient’s views and wishes. 

The Origin of Humanistic nursing theory

The humanistic nursing theory has roots in the work of Carl Rogers, who is considered the father of humanistic psychology.

The humanistic nursing theory responds to the limitations of traditional nursing theories that view patients as passive recipients of care. Humanistic nursing theory provides a more holistic view of the patient and their individual needs and experiences.

The humanistic nursing theory also emphasizes the importance of positive relationships between nurses and patients.

What is Zderad’s Humanistic nursing theory?

Zderad’s humanistic nursing theory focuses on the human being. Zderad’s approach sheds more light on Carl Roger’s works and builds on the theory.

The nursing profession uses the scientific and medical background to better relate to the patients.

Who developed the humanistic nursing theory?

Carl Rogers is considered the father of humanistic psychology. Zderad and Paterson are scientists who made more contributions to the theory. 

What are the key concepts of humanistic nursing theory?

The key concepts of the humanistic nursing theory include the following:

– Patients are more than just a sum of parts. They are complex individuals with unique needs and experiences.

– We have a natural tendency to grow and develop.

– Humans are capable of making their own decisions and choices.

– Humans are social creatures who need relationships with others.

– Humanistic nursing theory emphasizes the importance of positive relationships between nurses and patients.

What are the applications of humanistic nursing theory?

Humanistic nursing theory helps nurses understand and meet the needs of their patients. It can also help nurses develop positive relationships with their patients. Humanistic nursing theory can help nurses understand and meet the needs of their patients.

What are the benefits of humanistic nursing theory?

Humanistic nursing theory can help nurses understand and meet the needs of their patients. It can also help nurses develop positive relationships with their patients. Humanistic nursing theory can also help nurses understand and meet the needs of their patients.

Real-world application of the theory

Hospice and Palliative care nursing

Nurses can apply the humanist theory in hospice and palliative care. Palliative care nursing embraces helping the patient enjoy their dignity during their illness.

Palliative care is an area of nursing offering relief from the symptoms and stress of an illness. Hospice care is palliative care for people near the end of life. Humanistic nursing theory can help nurses understand and meet the needs of their patients in hospice and palliative care.

Oncology Nursing

The humanist theory is also applicable in oncology nursing. Oncology nurses provide care for patients with cancer. They focus on the whole person, not just the disease. Oncology nurses use the humanist theory to understand the needs of their patients and provide care that meets those needs.

Humanistic nursing theory provides a framework for nurses to view patients as complex individuals with unique needs and experiences.

Studies have found an increase in the sense of self and emotional wellbeing in oncology patients who experience humanist nursing practice.

Nursing professionals use the humanistic theory to provide the utmost personalized care for patients with end-stage chronic illnesses.

What is humanism theory?

Humanism theory is a term that refers to humanist theory. It focuses on human beings and their need to relate and interact with others and their environment. It also focuses on beings being independent and capable of making decisions over their care.

What are the limitations of humanistic nursing theory?

Humanistic theory makes generalizations on human nature. It also lacks a clear strategy to tackle severe mental health challenges.

Is humanistic nursing theory a grand theory?

Humanistic nursing theory is a grand theory as it lacks a strategy. It is highly theoretical. It is less holistic as it focuses more on assumptions and a means to implement it during care.

What is the history of humanist nursing theory?

The humanistic nursing theory originates in the work of Carl Rogers, who is considered the father of humanistic psychology. The humanistic nursing theory was in response to the limitations of traditional nursing theories, which tended to view patients as passive recipients of care.

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