Discuss the concept of personhood as used in the nursing as caring theory.
- Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.
The Concept of Personhood in the Nursing as Caring Theory
The theory of Nursing as Caring, developed by Anne Boykin and Savina Schoenhofer (2001), is a humanistic and relational approach to nursing that emphasizes caring as the central focus of nursing practice. At the heart of this theory lies the concept of personhood, which is foundational to understanding how nurses should engage with those they serve. In this model, personhood is not defined solely by biological or cognitive capacities but rather by one’s inherent value as a caring individual. This essay explores how personhood is conceptualized within the Nursing as Caring theory, highlighting its implications for nursing practice and the nurse-patient relationship.
In the Nursing as Caring theory, personhood is understood as the essence of being human. Each individual is viewed as a caring person by nature, which means that the capacity and expression of caring are intrinsic to human existence (Boykin & Schoenhofer, 2001). Unlike biomedical models that may reduce individuals to patients defined by disease or dysfunction, the Nursing as Caring perspective sees each person as a full and whole being who lives and grows in caring relationships. This philosophical stance implies that every person, regardless of age, health status, or cognitive ability, deserves to be treated with respect, dignity, and reverence.
The recognition of personhood in nursing practice means acknowledging that each individual is unique, with their own lived experiences, values, beliefs, and expressions of caring. Nurses are called to be fully present with the person they are caring for, engaging in a mutual relationship where both nurse and patient are considered persons in the process of caring. This reciprocal interaction goes beyond performing tasks; it involves knowing the person as they truly are and responding to what matters most to them in the moment (Boykin & Schoenhofer, 2001). This is a transformative view that reshapes the nurse’s role from task-oriented caregiver to a partner in a deeply human connection.
A crucial implication of this perspective is the moral and ethical commitment it requires of nurses. According to Locsin (2017), affirming personhood demands that nurses move beyond stereotypes and labels, engaging instead in authentic encounters that honor the patient’s identity and agency. This means listening actively, respecting cultural and spiritual beliefs, and co-creating care plans that reflect what is meaningful to the individual. Personhood thus becomes not only a philosophical concept but a practical guide that shapes ethical decision-making and fosters trust.
Furthermore, embracing personhood supports holistic nursing practice. It promotes the integration of physical, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions of care. This holistic approach is particularly important in palliative or long-term care settings, where the goal is not necessarily to cure but to support quality of life. When nurses honor the personhood of those they serve, they help create environments where healing, in its broadest sense, can occur.
In conclusion, the concept of personhood in the Nursing as Caring theory elevates the human experience at the core of nursing. It calls for a deep respect for the dignity, uniqueness, and caring nature of every person. This understanding transforms nursing from a set of clinical tasks into a sacred trust grounded in relationship and mutuality. By embracing personhood, nurses foster meaningful connections that support healing, well-being, and the expression of what it means to be human.
References
Boykin, A., & Schoenhofer, S. O. (2001). Nursing as caring: A model for transforming practice. Jones and Bartlett Publishers.
Locsin, R. C. (2017). Technological competency as caring in nursing: A model for practice. Springer Publishing Company.