Conceptual frameworks and terminology in doctoral nursing research

Area of Science:

• Nursing research
• Doctoral studies
• Meta-theoretical debate

Background:

• Conceptual frameworks are fundamental to nursing doctoral studies, defining research philosophy and foundations.
• They influence research design and theorizing but are often challenging and under-discussed.
• Understanding paradigms (objectivist, subjectivist) and their ontological, epistemological, and methodological underpinnings is key.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define conceptual frameworks and their dichotomies for nursing doctoral researchers.
• To integrate these frameworks with related concepts for deeper engagement with meta-theoretical discourse.
• To position nursing as a discipline capable of contributing to broader academic theoretical debates.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
• The review focused on conceptual framework debates, including paradigms, retroduction, and abduction.
• Application of these concepts to nursing doctoral research was considered.

Main Results:

• The review examines objectivist and subjectivist paradigms and the broader paradigm debate.
• It explores retroduction and abduction as relevant philosophical approaches.
• The integration of philosophical, methodological, and pragmatic aspects of doctoral research is highlighted.

Conclusions:

• Conceptual frameworks are pivotal in clarifying and integrating diverse aspects of doctoral theses.
• They are essential for nursing to be recognized as a research-based discipline engaged in meta-theoretical discussions.
• Conceptual frameworks should serve as the methodological bedrock for all nursing doctoral research.