Introducing a feminist perspective to nursing curricula: a quantitative study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Feminist Theory
• Women's Health

Background:

• Feminism offers a framework for social change within the nursing profession.
• Traditional scientific models of women's health often overlook broader societal influences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a feminist-oriented women's health course on nursing students' attitudes and beliefs.
• To explore how a non-traditional curriculum affects students' perspectives on women's health issues.

Main Methods:

• A pre- and post-course questionnaire was used to assess changes in nursing students' attitudes and beliefs.
• The study focused on students enrolled in a feminist-oriented women's health course.

Main Results:

• Significant positive changes were observed in professional activism among students.
• Students reported increased self-regard, higher regard for nurses and women, and greater social activism.
• The course effectively addressed women's health as related to consumer and provider concerns, moving beyond a purely scientific model.

Conclusions:

• Feminist pedagogy in nursing education can foster significant shifts in students' attitudes and beliefs.
• Such courses empower nursing students to become advocates for social change, challenging sexism and violence against women.
• Integrating feminist perspectives enhances the understanding of women's health within nursing practice and education.