Interpersonal Caring: A Theory for Improved Self-Esteem in Patients with Long-Term Serious Mental Illness – I

Abstract

This article describes a process of theory development in nursing care. The Interpersonal Caring theory empirically arose from a problematic nursing situation of caring for patients with long-term serious mental illness, to guide practical applications of interpersonal caring behaviors. The authors describe the phases of theory development with patient statements that illustrate how to conceptualize the phenomenon, and present theoretical and statistical analyses that validate the 10 domains of interpersonal caring: noticing, participating, sharing, active listening, companioning, complimenting, comforting, hoping, forgiving, and accepting.