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Concept analysis and the building blocks of theory: misconceptions regarding theory development
Elisabeth Bergdahl1,2, Carina M Berterö3
1Research and Development Unit, FOU nu, SLSO, Stockholm, Sweden.
Journal of Advanced Nursing
|May 25, 2016
Summary
Concept analysis in nursing does not construct theory and is not part of sound scientific method. Current methods should be abandoned in favor of modern theory of science approaches.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Science
- Philosophy of Science
- Philosophy of Language
Background:
- The idea that concepts are foundational to theory construction is prevalent in nursing literature.
- This notion is often repeated but seldom defended, and has been questioned by various scholars.
- Despite critiques, many agree concepts are essential components of theory.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically examine the justification of concept analysis as a theory-building method in nursing.
- To debate the scientific validity and philosophical underpinnings of current concept analysis practices in nursing.
Main Methods:
- Literature review to synthesize and debate existing knowledge on concept analysis and theory construction.
- Discussion paper format to present arguments and critique current methodologies.
Main Results:
- Concept analysis, as currently practiced in nursing, does not construct theory.
- The prevalent notion of concepts as building blocks for theory is based on significant misunderstandings.
- Current nursing concept analysis lacks a foundation in philosophy of science or language philosophy.
Conclusions:
- Concept analysis is not a valid method for theory construction in nursing.
- The current approaches to concept analysis in nursing should be abandoned.
- Nursing theory development should adopt methods aligned with modern philosophy of science.
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