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Updated: Aug 2, 2026

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Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
Towards a psychology of caring
1Warneford Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK.
The British Journal of Clinical Psychology
|May 1, 1990
Summary
This study advocates for a psychological examination of caring, emphasizing its relevance across domestic and professional settings. It calls for a deeper understanding of care
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Care Studies
Background:
- Growing recognition of chronic conditions necessitates a shift from 'treatment' to 'caring' models.
- Existing literature on caring is predominantly from organizational and sociological viewpoints.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for a dedicated psychological perspective on caring.
- To explore the multifaceted nature of caring in both domestic and professional contexts.
- To examine the interplay between caring philosophies, goals, practices, and emotions.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of the existing literature on caring.
- Identification of key psychological aspects of care for further examination.
Main Results:
- Highlights the need for a psychological framework to understand caring.
- Suggests specific areas for psychological inquiry, including need, vigilance, risk, elicitation, motivation, and evaluation.
- Emphasizes the importance of integrating psychological insights into care practices.
Conclusions:
- A distinct psychological perspective on caring is needed to complement existing sociological and organizational views.
- Further psychological research can enhance the understanding and practice of care across diverse settings.
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