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A concept analysis of befriending.
1Research in Childbirth and Health Unit (ReaCH), University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK.
Journal of Advanced Nursing
|October 17, 2014
Summary
Befriending, a supportive intervention for isolated individuals, is clarified through concept analysis. Key attributes include organized intervention, emotional connection, and power negotiation, paving the way for further research.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Health Sciences
- Nursing
Background:
- Befriending supports socially isolated individuals in health and social care.
- The mechanisms and impact of befriending are often poorly understood and under-researched.
- Concept analysis clarifies concepts and provides a foundation for future research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a concept analysis of befriending.
- To clarify the definition and attributes of befriending.
- To differentiate befriending from similar concepts like peer support and mentoring.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical concept analysis using Walker and Avant's method.
- Literature search of academic databases (AMED, Psyc Articles, Psych Info, Medline, MedlinePlus, Social Science Index, CINHAL) from 1993-2013.
- Focus on peer-reviewed academic literature.
Main Results:
- Identified key attributes defining befriending.
- Befriending is an organized intervention creating emotionally connected, friend-like relationships.
- Negotiation of power is a key aspect of the befriending relationship.
Conclusions:
- Clarified current understandings and applications of befriending.
- Provides a foundation for research on the effectiveness and impact of befriending.
- Highlights the need to study the impact on individuals, befrienders, and communities.
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