Investigating Philosophies Underpinning Dietetic Private Practice

Area of Science:

• Dietetics
• Professional Practice Theory
• Epistemology in Health Professions

Background:

• Limited understanding of dietitians' practice philosophies and their origins.
• Need for a theoretical framework to define and explain these philosophies.
• Focus on dietitians in private practice settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an explanatory theory on how private practice dietitians source, utilize, and integrate practice philosophies.
• To define practice philosophies using a conceptual framework of episteme, techne, and phronesis.
• To explore the generation and application of knowledge in dietetic practice.

Main Methods:

• Grounded theory qualitative methodology.
• Semi-structured interviews with dietitians in private practice.
• Concurrent data collection and analysis.

Main Results:

• Dietitians foster collaborative client relationships to facilitate change.
• Integrated use of episteme (theoretical knowledge), techne (practical skill), and phronesis (practical wisdom).
• Knowledge integration and adaptation occur through practice experience, feedback, and reflection.

Conclusions:

• Private practice provides a unique context for dietitians to manage complex client issues.
• Dietitians adapt their philosophies based on practical experience and reflective learning.
• The interplay of different knowledge forms is crucial for responsive and sensitive client care.